The Economic Times

Feb 12 Bharat Bandh: Govt responds over 'right to strike' ahead of nationwide shutdown tomorrow

India is bracing for a significant nationwide disruption on Thursday, February 12, 2026, as a joint forum of 10 central trade unions and farmers' organizations have called for a 24-hour Bharat Bandh. The strike is primarily aimed at protesting the four new labour codes and a proposed IndiaUS trade deal that critics argue could undermine workers' rights and harm domestic agriculture. In response, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has defended the new framework, asserting that the right to strike remains fully protected while introducing a mandatory notice period to ensure industrial harmony.