The Tripura government has issued a memorandum stating that all government and semi-government offices will remain open on July 9, the day when Left-backed trade unions have called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh.
The state government made it clear that it will take a strict stance against employee absenteeism on the day of the bandh. The memorandum warns that any unauthorized absence from duty will be viewed seriously and could lead to disciplinary action.
The bandh has been called by several Left-affiliated trade unions to protest what they describe as the “anti-people” policies of the BJP-led central government. The strike is also being held in support of a 17-point charter of demands, which includes issues related to workers’ rights, rising inflation, and privatization of public sector units.
Despite opposition from the government, Leftist trade unions are actively campaigning to ensure public support for the bandh. Across Tripura, including towns like Dharmanagar, Teliamura, and Udaipur, bandh supporters have been organising rallies, seminars, and door-to-door campaigns to raise awareness about their demands.
Speaking at one such gathering in Udaipur, a trade union leader said,
“This bandh is not just a political statement—it is a fight for the rights of workers and the common people who are suffering under the current policies.”
The state government, however, has taken a firm position against the bandh, asserting that normal public services must not be disrupted. Officials have been instructed to ensure full attendance in offices and maintain routine operations across departments.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have been put on alert to ensure peace and order on the day of the bandh. Police are expected to be deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any forced closure of shops, transport, or government establishments.
As the date approaches, tension is gradually building across the state, with both sides sticking to their respective stands—the government insisting on normalcy, and the Left unions preparing for mass mobilisation.
