Bharat Bandh 12 Feb 2026: Nationwide strike slowed down the pace, know what is open and what is closed in your city today?

News India Live, Digital Desk: Workers and farmers organizations are on the streets today against the ‘anti-labor’ and ‘anti-farmer’ policies of the Central Government. This bandh has been called in protest against the new labor codes, Electricity Amendment Bill 2025 and India-US trade deal. Its widespread impact is being seen in states like Odisha, Assam, Kerala and West Bengal. What can remain closed today? (What is Closed)The following services are likely to be partially or completely affected due to the strike:Bank Services: Functioning in branches of public sector banks (like SBI, PNB, BoB) may be affected as major bank unions (AIBEA, BEFI) are involved in the strike. Cash deposits and check clearance may be delayed. Public Transport: Roadways buses and auto-taxi unions are supporting the strike in many states. There are reports of complete traffic jam in Odisha and Assam. Markets and Factories: Local markets and business establishments in industrial areas and farmer-dominated areas may remain closed voluntarily. Rural Employment (MGNREGA): Due to the involvement of agricultural labor unions, work related to MNREGA is expected to remain closed today. What will remain open today? (What is Open)Essential services have been kept out of the strike for the convenience of the general public:Emergency services: Hospitals, ambulances, pharmacies (medicine shops) and fire services are running normally.Essential goods: Milk, newspapers, water and electricity supplies will not be disrupted.Railways and airports: Train and air services will run as scheduled, although passengers may have to take private vehicles to reach stations/airports.Schools and colleges: National level No holiday has been declared. Schools are open in states like Delhi, UP and Maharashtra, but in Kerala and Odisha, the local administration has decided on a holiday. Private Banks and Online Banking: Private banks (HDFC, ICICI etc.) and digital services (UPI, Net Banking, ATM) will remain operational. Why is the strike taking place? (Main demands) The main reasons for the protest by unions and farmers are as follows: New Labor Codes: Demand to withdraw 4 new codes that replaced 29 labor laws. Privatization: Ban on privatization of government undertakings and public sector banks. Old Pension Scheme (OPS): Restoration of old pension for government employees. India-US Trade Deal: Farmers fear that this deal will bring American dairy and agricultural products into the Indian market, which will harm local farmers.