New Delhi, Feb 11: A Bharat Bandh (nationwide protest) has been called on Thursday, February 12, 2026, by several central trade unions and farmers’ organizations to oppose labour codes and other government policies. The mass shutdown is expected to affect daily life and services, including banking, transport, schools and offices in many parts of the country.
Banks Not Officially Holiday, But Services May Be Hit
As of now, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not declared February 12 as an official banking holiday, which means that banks are officially scheduled to remain open on that day. However, major bank unions including the All-India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA) and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) have served strike notices and announced participation in the Bharat Bandh. This could lead to partial disruptions in routine banking services, especially in public sector bank branches where staff choose to join the strike.
What Customers Can Expect at Banks
Even though there is no official holiday:
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Branches are expected to remain open, but in-person services may be slowed or limited if many employees participate in the strike. This could impact activities such as cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearances and counter services.
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Online banking and digital services including UPI, mobile/internet banking and ATMs are expected to function normally, as these do not depend on branch staff presence.
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Private sector banks may see less disruption depending on whether their employees participate, but the situation may vary by location and bank.
Customers are advised to complete essential banking work in advance if possible, to avoid inconvenience.
Why the Bandh Could Hurt Banking Services
The bank unions are supporting the Bharat Bandh largely in protest against the four new Labour Codes introduced by the government, which they argue dilute workers’ rights and make it harder to organise unions. The unions have also voiced long-standing demands such as the introduction of a five-day work week in banks and better working conditions.
Impact Beyond Banking
The strike is expected to extend beyond banks:
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Public transport and road travel could be affected in some regions due to protests and possible road blockades.
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Schools and colleges do not have a nationwide closure order, but some institutions may close if local circumstances such as transport disruptions make normal functioning difficult.
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Markets and shops in areas with strong support for the bandh may remain shut, while essential services like hospitals, ambulances, water and electricity supply are expected to operate normally.
State-Level Variations
The actual impact of the Bharat Bandh will vary from state to state. In areas where unions and farmer groups have stronger mobilization, disruptions in banks, transport and schools are more likely. In other regions, normal services may continue with minimal interruption. Citizens are advised to check local advisories and plan travel and errands accordingly.