Is Bharat Bandh Being Supported by Traders' Bodies?
Synopsis
In the face of a proposed Bharat Bandh, the CAIT assures the public that trading activities will remain uninterrupted. Discover how traders are responding to the strike call and what it means for the economy.
Key Takeaways
CAIT confirms markets are open despite Bharat Bandh.
No major traders’ organization supports the strike.
Trade activities are expected to continue without disruption.
Public should disregard rumors and misleading information.
The organized trading sector emphasizes the importance of stability in the economy.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) declared on Thursday that markets nationwide are operational, trade functions are running smoothly, and all business activities will continue without interruption, despite the Bharat Bandh (nationwide strike) proposed by certain trade unions and farmers’ organizations.
Praveen Khandelwal, the National Secretary General of CAIT, emphasized that all trading and trade-related operations throughout the nation will carry on as normal.
“No significant national traders’ organization has endorsed a Bharat Bandh. Therefore, all commercial establishments, markets, and both wholesale and retail trade centers across India will remain fully functional, ensuring that routine business activities are conducted without any hindrance,” Khandelwal, who also serves as a Member of Parliament, stated.
Reports indicate that certain trade unions have purportedly initiated a call for a Bharat Bandh.
“However, it is important to clarify that these calls are disconnected from the broader trading community in the country. The organized trade sector does not endorse any such bandh,” Khandelwal mentioned.
The trading sector is crucial to the nation’s economy and has consistently worked to ensure that consumers do not encounter any difficulties and that normal market functions persist unimpeded.
“The general public is, therefore, urged to disregard any rumors or misleading information,” he added.
Meanwhile, public sector banks, government offices, transportation services, and markets in various states may experience disruptions due to the strike. Some educational institutions may also close in regions affected by protests, depending on local circumstances. The strike has been called by a coalition of central trade unions, with significant support from farmer groups opposing the new Labour Codes and the India-US trade agreement.
The unions are challenging the four labor codes that replaced 29 labor laws last year. They are also advocating for the restoration of MGNREGA and the annulment of the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
Point of View
It is critical to uphold the stability of the nation's economy. The organized trading community plays an essential role in maintaining normalcy and ensuring the public is not inconvenienced. While protests can be a form of expression, they should not disrupt the daily lives of citizens or the economy.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bharat Bandh?
Bharat Bandh refers to a nationwide strike called by various trade unions and organizations, aiming to protest against specific policies or legislation.
Is CAIT supporting the Bharat Bandh?
No, CAIT has stated that it does not support the Bharat Bandh and that all trading activities will continue as usual.
What sectors may be affected by the Bharat Bandh?
While CAIT assures that markets will remain open, public sector banks, government offices, transport services, and educational institutions in protest-hit areas may experience disruptions.
What are the demands of the protesting unions?
The protesting unions are advocating for the restoration of MGNREGA and the scrapping of the new labor codes that replaced previous labor laws.
How can the public stay informed about the situation?
It's important for the public to rely on credible news sources and avoid misinformation regarding the Bharat Bandh and its implications.
