Bharat Bandh 2025: Banks Open, Markets Active—But Expect Service Snags

India awakens to a nation-wide Bharat Bandh today, July 9, 2025, as over 25 crore workers across all industries participate in the combined strike organized by 10 central trade unions. Banks and share markets are technically functioning but are expected to experience disruptions in all financial activity and public infrastructure.

Banking operations:

No bank holiday has been announced by the RBI officially; branches have been placed on the roster.

But these organizations such as All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) and Bengal Provincial Bank Employees Association are participating in the strike.

Expect fewer employees, slower cheque clearance, and fewer customer services at cooperative and government banks.

Stock market status:

Both BSE and NSE are functioning normally today.

Volumes are muted by issues of logistics and reduced retail investor activity in the affected areas.

Other industries impacted:

Mail services, coal extraction, insurance, and state transport are down partly.

Over 27 lakh employees of the power sector have struck, and power supply is disrupted in some states.

Metro city public transportation may be affected by protest marches and road blockades.

What remains unaffected:

Schools, colleges, and offices of individuals must function as normal, except on special advisories from local authorities.

The necessary services like hospitals, pharmacies, and emergency services are exempted from the strike and will operate as usual.

The strike demonstrates against labor law changes, privatisation, and economic adversity, with the unions demanding salary hikes, pension reinstatement, and job creation.

Sources: Indian Express, MSN News2, News18, Hindustan Times4, Firstpost.