A nationwide strike has been called for February 12, 2026, by a joint platform of 10 central trade unions. They expect participation from not less than 30 crore workers across India. The strike is meant to oppose what unions describe as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies of the central government. Preparations have been made at district and block levels, and the strike is expected to affect around 600 districts, which is more than the 550 districts impacted during the last major protest in July 2025.
The immediate demands include scrapping the four labour codes, withdrawal of the Draft Seed Bill, the Electricity Amendment Bill, and the SHANTI Act. They also want restoration of MGNREGA and removal of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
The unions say that farmers’ groups and other federations are supporting the strike. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha has pledged full participation, while agricultural workers’ unions are joining with a focus on restoring MGNREGA. Campaigns have been carried out across states, covering government, public, and private sector establishments, industrial areas, and both rural and urban regions. Students, youth groups, and ordinary citizens have also shown support.
Strike notices have already been served in most industries. The unions expect strong impact in states such as Odisha and Assam, with significant disruption in other regions as well.
The joint forum organising the strike includes major unions such as INTUC, AITUC, HMS, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF, and UTUC. With widespread campaigns and multiple groups joining in, the strike is expected to be one of the largest in recent years, reflecting growing worker and farmer discontent with current policies.