Bharat Bandh Today: Protests in Major Bengal Cities, Roads Blocked

Photo : PTI

Bharat Bandh in West Bengal Turns Tense: Clashes, Roadblocks

Kolkata: The nationwide strike or Bharat Bandh on July 9, 2025, took a violent turn in many parts of West Bengal, especially in Kolkata, as supporters of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and other Left parties tried to enforce the bandh across roads and railway lines.

The bandh was called by 10 central trade unions in protest against the central government’s labour laws, privatization policies, and rising unemployment. The strike saw strong participation from the CPI(M) and other Left-backed organisations in West Bengal, but it was opposed by the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).

What Happened in West Bengal?

From early morning on Wednesday, CPI(M) supporters, along with members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and other allied groups, gathered in different districts. Their aim was to stop public transport, block roads, shut down offices, and bring normal life to a standstill.

Some key incidents across the state included:

Kolkata and Surrounding Areas

• In Jadavpur, CPI(M) supporters burnt tyres on the main roads to block traffic.
• In Ganguly Bagan, a rally led by CPI(M) leader Srijan Bhattacharya was stopped by the police. Bhattacharya and several others were detained.
• At the University of Calcutta, SFI members held a strong protest against the central and state governments.
• In Bhatpara (North 24 Parganas), trade union members blocked the gates of the Reliance Jute Mill, not allowing workers to enter the premises.

Railway Disruptions Across the State

Supporters of CPI(M) tried to block railway tracks in several places:

• Durgapur in Paschim Bardhaman
• Lalgola in Murshidabad
• Barrackpore in North 24 Parganas
• Konnagar in Hooghly
• Diamond Harbour

Railway Protection Force (RPF) and state police had to use force to clear tracks. Some trains were delayed or cancelled, affecting passengers.

Northern and Southern Bengal

• From Malda in the north to Domjur and Namkhana in the south, CPI(M) workers tried to block buses and other public vehicles.
• In North Bengal, protestors tried to stop buses and were arrested by the police.
• There were face-offs between protestors and police in many areas.

Also Read: Bharat Bandh 2025 25 Crore Workers Strike Services Disrupted

What Are the Protestors Demanding?

The CPI(M) and trade unions say they are protesting against:

• The new labour laws passed by the central government, which they say are unfair to workers.
• Privatization of government-run companies, which leads to job loss.
• Rising unemployment and poor working conditions.
• Increase in contract jobs with no job security or benefits.
• Low pension and no safety net for workers after retirement.

What Did the Trinamool Congress (TMC) Say?

The ruling Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal did not support the Bharat Bandh. In fact, the government strongly opposed it and ordered all state employees to be present at work.

A circular issued by Transport Secretary Saumitra Mohan directed both public and private transport operators to continue normal services. The government also warned of strict action against those who skip duty.

The Indian National Trinamool Trade Union Congress (INTTUC) also rejected the bandh. Its president, Ritabrata Banerjee, said:

“Strikes are not a solution. They do not help workers. Losing workdays only causes more problems. We believe in working, not stopping work.”

Since coming to power in 2011, TMC has moved away from supporting bandhs. Earlier, when in opposition, they often called for strikes. But now they say strikes hurt the economy and daily life of common people.

Public Life Affected

Although the TMC government tried to ensure normal life, the impact of the bandh was felt in many places:

• Trains: Delays and cancellations in parts of Eastern Railways.
• Roads: Several roads were blocked with tyre fires and human chains.
• Buses: Many buses had to turn back or take longer routes due to blockades.
• Shops and Markets: Some small shops in protest areas were closed, but major markets stayed open.
• Schools and Offices: Government offices ran with full attendance. Most schools and colleges remained open

Political Impact

The Bharat Bandh has once again exposed the deep political divisions in West Bengal:

• CPI(M), Congress, and other Left parties accused both the central and state governments of ignoring the needs of workers and students.
• TMC, while opposing the central policies, refused to support the bandh and focused on keeping the state running.
• Police actions, including the alleged beating of a CPI(M) leader, may increase tension between the ruling party and the Left front.

The protest also highlights how labour rights and job security are becoming important political topics again. With unemployment rising, many workers are feeling insecure and are turning to trade unions for support.

The Bharat Bandh in West Bengal showed both the strength and the struggle of India's working class. While CPI(M) and other Left parties managed to gather strong support, the protests also led to tension, arrests, and clashes.

The government, both at the Centre and in West Bengal, must now listen to the voice of the people. Strikes and shutdowns should not be the only way for workers to express their pain. Real dialogue and reforms are needed.

If workers feel unheard and unprotected, such protests will continue. It is time for leaders to act wisely, listen with care, and find solutions that are fair for all.