Bharat Bandh Today: Farmers’ Call May Disrupt Daily Life in Some States

Kerala | 12 Feb 2026 A nationwide shutdown, or Bharat Bandh, has been called for today, February 12, by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) as part of its protest against the recently announced India-US trade deal. The strike is being supported by a joint forum of 10 central trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU and others. While the bandh is expected to have an impact in some regions, its intensity may vary from state to state. In states like Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha, schools and colleges may remain closed if local organisations extend support to the bandh. Markets and local shops could be partially or fully shut in areas where participation is strong. Banking services may also face disruption, with some branches operating with limited staff or remaining closed depending on employee participation. Public transport services, especially state-run buses and local transport, are likely to be affected in several cities. Commuters may face delays, cancellations or reduced frequency of services. Traffic movement could also slow down due to road blockades or protests, leading to congestion in busy areas. However, private offices are expected to function as usual. Emergency services such as hospitals and ambulance services are expected to operate normally. Air travel and railway services are also expected to run, though passengers have been advised to stay alert for possible delays. Explaining the reason for the bandh, SKM Convenor Hannan Mollah said, "Agreement will be a betrayal against farmers...We are surrendering before the shrewdness of US. The Govt has surrendered." He warned that cheaper imports could hurt Indian farmers, adding that "our farmers will be finished" if such agreements Bharat Bandh Today: Farmers’ Call May Disrupt Daily Life in Some States A nationwide Bharat Bandh is being observed today, February 12, by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM). The protest is against the recently announced India-US trade deal. Several central trade unions have also extended their support, which may lead to disruptions in some states, depending on local participation. In states such as Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha, schools and colleges may remain closed if local groups support the bandh. In many areas, markets and small shops could shut partially or fully. Banking services may also see limited operations in places where employees join the strike. Public transport services, including state-run buses and local transport, are likely to be affected in several cities. This could lead to delays, cancellations and traffic congestion due to road blockades or demonstrations. However, private offices are expected to function normally across most regions. Emergency services like hospitals and ambulances are expected to run without interruption. Trains and flights are also expected to operate, though passengers have been advised to stay alert. Explaining the protest, SKM leader Hannan Mollah said, "Agreement will be a betrayal against farmers...We are surrendering before the shrewdness of US. The Govt has surrendered." He further warned that cheap imports could hurt Indian farmers, saying "our farmers will be finished" if such agreements continue.