The nationwide Bharat bandh called by trade unions significantly disrupted public transport services in Guwahati and Assam, causing considerable inconvenience for commuters. In Guwahati, the public bus service operated by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) struggled to accommodate rush hour demand, as private buses and app-based cabs were off the roads. Trade union activists enforced the bandh in various areas, particularly at Khanapara. Normal operations at public sector undertakings, including banks and oil installations, were also negatively impacted.
Hundreds of workers from the Digboi Refinery protested outside the facility, warning of escalated agitation if their demands were not met. Nagen Chutia, General Secretary of the Petroleum and Gas Workers Federation of India, emphasized the significance of the protest, claiming that proposed labor codes from the government threaten workers’ rights. He indicated that future protests could intensify unless the government reassesses its stance on labor reforms. Chutia criticized the ruling BJP government, accusing it of exploiting the common people and privatizing industries.
The bandh also brought regular life to a standstill in Dhubri, affecting transportation and banking operations. This Bharat Bandh was organized by over ten central trade unions and supported by farmers’ groups, protesting against the government’s new labor codes and what they label as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies. The strike is scheduled to conclude at 6 pm after 12 hours.