Guwahati, Feb 12: Normal life in Assam’s Dhubri district was severely disrupted on February 12 as a nationwide general strike called by central trade unions and employee federations brought transport and banking services to a standstill.
The bandh was organised in protest against the Centre’s new labour codes, which unions allege threaten workers’ rights and constitutional safeguards. The strike saw participation from employees across both public and private sectors.
The transport sector was among the worst affected. Long-distance and local passenger buses, along with commercial goods vehicles, remained off the roads throughout the day. Major bus terminals in Dhubri wore a deserted look, leaving inter-district travellers stranded as services to neighbouring districts and states were suspended.
Within the town, movement was limited. A small number of e-rickshaws and three-wheelers operated on select routes, though many drivers expressed solidarity with the strike. Marketplaces reported reduced footfall, and commercial activity slowed as transport disruptions affected supply chains.
Banking operations were also hit hard. The main branch of the State Bank of India and several other nationalised banks across the district remained closed following the strike call by bank employees’ unions. Customers were forced to rely on ATMs and digital banking services, leading to increased usage of cash machines across town.
Union representatives reiterated their opposition to the four labour codes enacted by the central government, alleging that the reforms dilute job security, weaken collective bargaining and undermine established labour protections. They also demanded restoration of the old pension scheme and improved service conditions.
Despite widespread disruption, the bandh remained largely peaceful. The district administration and police maintained heightened vigilance, deploying personnel at key locations including banks, transport hubs and market areas. Authorities indicated that normal services are expected to resume on Friday, subject to no further agitation.
The strike highlighted continuing tensions between organised labour groups and the Centre over labour reforms, with Dhubri mirroring protests reported from other parts of the country.
