Life was partially disrupted in Kerala and several other parts of southern India on Wednesday as trade unions observed a nationwide Bharat Bandh, protesting against what they termed the Central government’s “anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate” policies.
In Kottayam district, shops and shopping malls downed shutters in response to the strike call given by a coalition of 10 central trade unions, representing nearly 25 crore workers across various sectors. The bandh affected business activity, though essential services largely remained unaffected. Normal life was affected in Ernakulam.
#WATCH | Kozhikode, Kerala | Effects of 'Bharat Bandh' called by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, alleging the central govt of pushing "pro-corporate" policies.
pic.twitter.com/AesjtEoO9O
— ANI (@ANI) July 9, 2025
Despite the bandh call, Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses were expected to operate as usual. Kerala Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar stated there was no justification for KSRTC staff to participate in the strike, as reported by On Manorama. However, isolated disruptions were reported. In Kochi and Kollam, members of trade unions were seen blocking KSRTC buses.
Beyond Kerala, the strike saw scattered protests in major cities. In Chennai, members of Left parties gathered in Guindy to demonstrate against the Centre. In Bengaluru, the bandh’s impact was expected to be significant, particularly in the banking and insurance sectors. Postal services were also likely to face disruptions, with many postal department employees supporting the strike.
#WATCH | Chennai | Left parties stage a protest against the Central government in Guindy as part of 'Bharat Bandh' call pic.twitter.com/xQCna7o9Ee
— ANI (@ANI) July 9, 2025
Workers from crucial sectors such as power, coal, and transport extended solidarity, adding to the national scale of the agitation.
