Bharat Bandh to Impact Jharkhand: Workers from Banks to Coal Mines to Participate

A nationwide strike, the Bharat Bandh, is set to impact Jharkhand, with an estimated 25 crore workers participating. The strike is organized in opposition to the government’s labor and farmer policies by ten central trade unions and their affiliated bodies. Sectors such as banking, insurance, postal services, and coal mines are expected to experience disruptions. Several labor organizations and political parties in Jharkhand have voiced their support for the strike, with workers from various sectors, including coal, banking, central and state government employees, and others, announcing their participation. A torchlight procession was held in Ranchi to garner support for the bandh. Key demands include the immediate repeal of the four labor codes, a minimum wage of Rs 26,000 and a minimum pension of Rs 9,000 for all workers, and the restoration of the old pension scheme. Additional demands include controlling inflation, removing GST on essential goods, opposing privatization, and ensuring rights related to forming unions and collective bargaining, along with guaranteed public services and MSP for farmers. The strike is expected to affect banking services, insurance companies, postal services, coal mine operations, state transport services, and work on highways and construction sites. However, private companies, hospitals, medical emergency services, and private schools/colleges will remain open.