A major nationwide strike, known as Bharat Bandh, is set to take place in India on July 9, 2025, drawing the attention of the international community due to its unprecedented scale. Over 25 crore (250 million) workers from both organized and unorganized sectors are expected to participate, making it one of the largest labor actions globally. The strike is organized by a coalition of ten central trade unions, joined by various farmers’ and rural workers’ organizations, to protest government policies they describe as pro-corporate and detrimental to workers and farmers.

The anticipated impact of the Bharat Bandh is significant, with key public services and industries likely to face widespread disruptions. Sectors such as banking, insurance, postal services, coal mining, industrial production, and regional transport are expected to be hit the hardest. While there are no official closure notices for banks, schools, or stock markets, interruptions in services are likely due to worker participation and possible roadblocks, especially in major cities and industrial hubs. The protest has also received support from major farmer groups, further amplifying its reach across rural India.

At the heart of the protest is a 17-point charter of demands submitted by the unions, which includes calls for better labor rights, wage reforms, and opposition to labor policies perceived as favoring corporations over workers. The unions also highlight broader concerns such as rising unemployment, increasing prices of essential goods, and cuts in welfare spending. These issues resonate with global debates on labor rights, economic inequality, and the role of government in safeguarding social welfare.

The strike’s organizers have spent months mobilizing workers and rural communities, reflecting a high level of coordination and grassroots support. International observers note that such a large-scale collective action demonstrates the enduring power of organized labor in shaping economic and social policy, and serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by workers in rapidly developing economies worldwide.