Farmers’ body warns pact will hurt domestic agriculture; transport, markets and schools may face disruptions in several states
New Delhi: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12, intensifying its campaign against the recently announced India–US trade agreement, which it claims will adversely impact Indian farmers.
The protest is being organised jointly with a forum of 10 central trade unions, including INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF and UTUC. SKM leader Hannan Mollah criticised the agreement, alleging that it exposes domestic agriculture to unfair competition from US imports and threatens farmers’ livelihoods.
Calling the deal a “betrayal,” Mollah accused the Centre of yielding to US pressure and demanded the resignation of Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. He said the farmers’ body has launched an outreach campaign from February 4 to 11, culminating in the nationwide shutdown.
Meanwhile, the government has defended the interim trade pact, with Goyal stating that the agreement will strengthen India’s economic prospects and benefit farmers in the long run.
Although no official holiday has been declared, disruptions are likely in several states. Schools and colleges in parts of Kerala, Karnataka and Odisha may remain closed if local groups back the strike. Public transport, markets and banking services could also be affected.
Emergency services such as hospitals and ambulances are expected to operate normally. Authorities have advised travellers to check flight and train schedules in advance and plan for possible delays.
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