Chennai — The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12 to protest the proposed India-US interim trade agreement, prompting questions about possible disruptions in Chennai.
With the Bharat Bandh scheduled for tomorrow, residents in Chennai are checking whether banks, schools, government offices and transport services will function as usual.
Why Has Bharat Bandh Been Called?
SKM leaders have opposed the trade framework, alleging that it could harm Indian farmers by allowing cheaper foreign goods to flood domestic markets. SKM Convenor Hannan Mollah has described the agreement as a “betrayal against farmers,” claiming that Indian agricultural produce would struggle to compete if imports increase.
Farmer groups have conducted outreach programmes across states from February 4 to 11, culminating in the call for a Bharat Bandh on February 12.
The organisation argues that trade arrangements with countries such as the US and EU may disadvantage smaller economies and threaten farm incomes.
What Has the Government Said?
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has defended the agreement, saying that sensitive sectors have been protected. According to the Centre, dairy products, key food grains, vegetables and spices have been excluded from tariff concessions. The government has also stated that genetically modified food will not be allowed under the deal.
Goyal has said that Indian agricultural products will receive zero-duty access to the US market, while no tariff concessions have been granted to US farm goods entering India.
Will Chennai See Closures During Bharat Bandh?
As of now, there has been no official announcement from Tamil Nadu authorities declaring a holiday for banks, schools or government offices in Chennai due to the Bharat Bandh.
However, public transport services and road traffic could be affected if protests or demonstrations take place in parts of the city. Commuters are advised to check updates from local authorities and transport agencies before planning travel.
Private institutions and businesses may take individual decisions based on local conditions. Residents are encouraged to monitor official advisories for the latest updates on the Bharat Bandh in Chennai.
