Bharat bandh brings Assam's Dhubri to a standstill; transport off roads, banks shut

Normal life across Dhubri district was severely disrupted on February 12 as a nationwide general strike, called by central trade unions and various employee federations, brought transport services and banking operations to a grinding halt. 

The bandh, organised in protest against the Centre’s new labour codes and what unions described as threats to workers’ rights and constitutional safeguards, witnessed significant participation from both public and private sector employees.

The transport sector bore the brunt of the shutdown. All categories of long-distance and local passenger buses, along with commercial goods vehicles, remained off the roads. Major bus terminals in Dhubri, usually teeming with early morning commuters, presented a deserted picture. Inter-district travellers were left stranded as services to neighbouring districts and states were suspended for the day.

Within the town, the situation was relatively less difficult but still subdued. A limited number of e-rickshaws and three-wheelers operated on select routes, although their presence was markedly thinner than usual, with many drivers expressing solidarity with the strike call. Commercial activity in marketplaces also slowed considerably as transport disruptions impacted supply chains and footfall.

Also Read: Hit-and-Run horror on NH-127B: One killed, another critical in Dhubri, driver on the run

Banking services were among the most visibly affected sectors. The Main Branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) and several other nationalised banks across the district remained closed, responding to the call given by bank employees’ unions. Protesters reiterated their opposition to the four new labour codes enacted by the central government, alleging that the reforms dilute job security provisions, weaken collective bargaining mechanisms, and undermine long-standing labour protections. In addition, union representatives pressed for the restoration of the old pension scheme and improved service conditions.

Customers arriving at bank premises were compelled to return without completing over-the-counter transactions, relying instead on ATM services and digital platforms. ATMs across the town witnessed increased usage throughout the day.

The joint platform of trade unions stated that the strike aimed to compel the government to withdraw the new labour codes and engage in broader consultations with stakeholders. Protesters also raised slogans emphasising the protection of democratic and constitutional values.

Despite the extensive disruption, the bandh remained largely peaceful in Dhubri. The district administration and police maintained heightened vigilance, deploying personnel at key locations including bank branches, transport hubs, and major market areas to prevent any untoward incidents. Authorities indicated that normal services are expected to resume on Friday morning, provided there are no further calls for agitation.

The strike once again underscored the continuing friction between organised labour groups and the Centre over labour reforms, with Dhubri reflecting the wider national mood of protest witnessed across several parts of the country.