Bharat Bandh tomorrow: Samyukt Kisan Morcha's call for February 12 amid protest over India-US trade deal

On February 12, a nationwide strike, dubbed 'Bharat Bandh', has been called by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) in response to concerns surrounding the recently finalized India-US trade agreement. This protest is backed by ten prominent trade unions and aims to raise awareness about potential detrimental impacts on Indian farmers and the agricultural sector. Activists argue that the trade deal could lead to increased imports of agricultural products, undermining local farmers and threatening their livelihoods. The SKM, which played a pivotal role in the farmer protests against the now-repealed farm laws, is mobilizing support to ensure that the voices of the agricultural community are heard. The 'Bharat Bandh' is expected to disrupt normal life across various states, as farmers, laborers, and various sectors rally together to express their dissent against policies perceived as harmful to their interests. This action highlights ongoing tensions regarding agricultural policies and trade agreements, which have become increasingly contentious in the context of India's economic landscape and farmer welfare.