The Bharat Bandh is forecasted to result in a near-complete halt of non-essential activities across Kerala. Trade union representatives, including those from the CITU and AITUC, have indicated that they expect the strike to be "unprecedented" in the state. Based on the mobilization of various sectors, the following services are expected to remain closed or heavily impacted:

February 12 Strike in Kerala: What will be closed?

• Educational Institutions: Most schools and colleges are likely to remain shut as student and teacher organizations have extended their full support to the strike.
• Banking and Government Offices: Operations at public sector banks will be severely disrupted as major unions like AIBEA and BEFI have urged their members to join the protest. Government offices and PSUs are also expected to see minimal attendance.
• Public Transport: KSRTC and private bus services are likely to stay off the roads. Auto-rickshaw and taxi unions have also pledged participation, meaning travelers should expect major roadblocks.
• Markets and Industries: Shops, local markets, and industrial units—including those in the IT and plantation sectors—are expected to suspend work for 24 hours.

Also Read: Bharat Bandh in Karnataka on February 12: Are schools, banks, government offices closed in the state tomorrow?

Bharat Bandh in Kerala: What Will Remain Open?

Despite the call for a total shutdown, the Joint Strike Committee has declared that essential services will be maintained to prevent life-threatening disruptions. The following will remain open:

• Emergency Care: All hospitals, pharmacies, and ambulance services are strictly exempted from the strike.
• Essential Supplies: The supply of milk and newspapers will continue as usual across the state.
• Pilgrim Services: According to reports, Sabarimala pilgrims will be allowed to travel without hindrance.
• Infrastructure: Airports and ATMs are expected to remain functional, though reaching these locations may be difficult due to lack of transport.

Why has the Bharat Bandh Been Called?

The primary cause for the February 12 strike is the government's implementation of four new labour codes, which unions claim will strip workers of their fundamental rights and job security. According to the AITUC General Secretary, the codes favor corporate interests over those of the 30 crore workers expected to participate nationwide. Additionally, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) is protesting the proposed India–US trade deal, which they argue will allow American multinational corporations to flood the Indian market with agricultural imports, hurting local farmers.

Also Read: Bharat Bandh on February 12: Will banks, schools, colleges, transport and markets remain closed tomorrow?

Political Support and Preparation in Kerala

The strike has received strong backing from the LDF (Left Democratic Front), with major parties like the CPM and CPI calling on the public to cooperate. While BJP-backed unions have announced they will not participate, the vast majority of transport and service federations in Kerala have served strike notices to their employers. Local authorities are on high alert, and travelers are advised by the Joint Committee of Trade Unions to avoid non-essential trips to prevent being stranded.