Nationwide strike may disrupt key services

Services related to electricity, banking, insurance, transport, health, education, and gas and water supply are likely to be disrupted across the country on Thursday due to a nationwide strike called by a joint forum of central trade unions.

The February 12 general strike is expected to see participation from around 30 crore workers across sectors. The unions have called the strike to protest what they describe as “anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate” policies of the central government, including the implementation of new labour codes and sectoral reforms.

Power sector employees, represented by the All India Power Engineers Federation (AIPEF), have announced that nearly 2.7 million engineers and workers will observe a one-day strike. They are opposing privatisation moves, the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2025, the proposed National Electricity Policy 2026, and demanding restoration of the Old Pension Scheme.

In banking, three of the nine major unions — AIBEA, AIBOA and BEFI — will participate in the strike, while others have extended support without joining. Several public sector banks have cautioned that branch operations may be affected.

Insurance employees are protesting against the decision to allow up to 100 per cent foreign direct investment in the sector. Transport workers, mining staff, and gas pipeline employees are also expected to join.

Farmer bodies, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, have extended support, raising demands related to MGNREGA and other legislation. However, TUCC has rejected the strike call, terming it politically motivated.