Bank services hit as workers observe Bharat Bandh

Today's 'Bharat Bandh' strike has caused significant disruptions to banking services across India, including the city of Kolkata. Over 25 crore workers from various vital sectors, including banking, insurance, and postal services, have joined the nationwide protest. This massive industrial action has been called by a joint forum of central trade unions to express their strong opposition to the government's perceived "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate" policies.

The impact on the banking sector has been particularly pronounced. Numerous bank branches across the country are operating with only skeletal staff, leading to severely limited services or, in many cases, a complete cessation of operations. This has left countless customers unable to conduct essential transactions such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and cheque clearances, causing widespread inconvenience and financial bottlenecks.

In Kolkata, the effects of the strike are visible. Protesters affiliated with the trade unions have gathered outside prominent bank branches, including the UCO Bank, the only PSU bank headquarters in the city. These demonstrations have actively deterred customers and even remaining staff from entering the premises, further exacerbating the service disruptions. Such targeted protests aim to underscore the unions' resolve and bring public attention to their demands.