Bharat Bandh: Clashes in Howrah, Protests in Bihar & Odisha Disrupt Normal Life
July 9, 2025 | India — The nationwide Bharat Bandh called by various trade unions and farmers’ organizations witnessed widespread disruptions and sporadic violence across multiple states on Tuesday. From clashes in Howrah to large-scale protests in Bihar and Odisha, the bandh paralyzed transportation, hit essential services, and sparked tensions in several areas.
Clashes Erupt in Howrah
In Howrah, West Bengal, the bandh turned violent as protestors clashed with police near the Shalimar station. Stones were hurled and lathi charges were carried out to disperse demonstrators who attempted to block train tracks and arterial roads. Authorities confirmed multiple injuries on both sides, and at least 15 protestors were detained.
Vehicular traffic came to a standstill in the Howrah district, while schools and some businesses opted to remain shut anticipating unrest. Local trains were disrupted, and several long-distance trains were either delayed or rerouted due to the protest near rail tracks.
Bihar Sees Rail Roko & Road Blockades
In Bihar, bandh supporters, primarily from Left-backed trade unions and student organizations, carried out extensive rail roko (rail blockade) campaigns. Protestors blocked tracks at Patna, Gaya, and Darbhanga stations, impacting over a dozen passenger and freight trains. National highways were also blocked in parts of Begusarai, Arrah, and Muzaffarpur.
Heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces was reported, especially in sensitive districts. No major violence was reported, but public transport services remained thin throughout the day.
Odisha Witnesses Statewide Shutdown
Odisha too witnessed widespread participation in the bandh. Major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Rourkela saw large gatherings of protestors shutting down marketplaces and bus services. Protestors led processions through the streets, demanding a rollback of key government policies including the recent labor reforms and alleged privatization of public sector enterprises.
State government offices, banks, and educational institutions reported low attendance. Private bus services were suspended, and shops remained shut in many areas as a precautionary measure.
Who Called the Bandh and Why?
The Bharat Bandh was organized by a coalition of central trade unions, farmers’ groups, and civil society organizations. Their demands include:
- Withdrawal of controversial labor codes
- Assurance of minimum support prices (MSP) for all crops
- Reversal of public sector privatization
- Restoration of the old pension scheme
- Better job security and wages for contract workers
Farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh held solidarity marches, although the northern region remained relatively peaceful.
Government Response
The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier issued advisories to states to ensure law and order during the bandh. Local governments deployed additional forces to sensitive zones, and Section 144 was imposed in some districts to avoid mass gatherings.
Railways and state transport corporations remained on alert, while emergency services were kept operational.
Impact on Daily Life
The nationwide shutdown affected daily commuters, office-goers, and school children in many areas. While metro services in major cities like Delhi and Bengaluru remained unaffected, roads and highways in parts of eastern India saw severe disruptions.
E-commerce deliveries and courier services also faced delays in protest-affected areas. Several online food and cab platforms scaled down services due to safety concerns.
Conclusion
The Bharat Bandh once again showcased the brewing discontent among various sections of society regarding employment, agrarian distress, and economic reforms. While the government maintained that reforms are aimed at long-term benefits, protestors asserted that policies were being implemented without adequate dialogue.
With sporadic violence and wide participation, the bandh has sent a strong message to policymakers. The coming days will be crucial in gauging whether the Centre responds with engagement or enforcement.
