A statewide bandh (protest strike) scheduled in Karnataka on Wednesday, February 12, 2026, is expected to affect normal life in several parts of the state, including the functioning of schools and colleges. Major cities such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Mangaluru, and surrounding districts may witness transport disruptions and partial closures as protest activities intensify.
Education authorities have not issued a uniform closure order so far, but institutions are preparing for possible disruptions and may take independent decisions based on local conditions.
Bandh Likely to Impact Urban Centres
The bandh has been called by various organisations demanding action on social and economic issues. Protest marches and road blockades are expected in key commercial and administrative centres, which could affect public transport and daily commuting.
Police and district administrations are on alert to ensure law and order and to facilitate essential services. However, traffic diversions and temporary restrictions are likely in parts of major cities.
No Statewide Holiday Declared for Educational Institutions
As of now, the state government has not announced a general holiday for schools and colleges on February 12. Education departments have advised institutions to assess local conditions before deciding on closures or altered schedules.
In many areas, managements are considering options such as:
- Suspending physical classes for the day
- Conducting online sessions
- Delaying opening hours
- Allowing flexible attendance for students facing transport difficulties
Final decisions are expected to be communicated directly by schools and colleges to parents and students.
Cities Expected to See Maximum Disruption
Educational institutions in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Mangaluru, Belagavi, Kalaburagi, and Davanagere are likely to be the most affected due to planned demonstrations and possible shutdown of bus and auto services.
Private school associations have indicated that student safety will be the primary consideration while deciding whether to hold classes.
Transport and Commuting Challenges Anticipated
Public transport services, including city buses and inter-district travel, may face interruptions as unions supporting the bandh plan to restrict movement in certain areas. This could prevent students and teachers from reaching campuses on time.
Parents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel with children and to wait for official instructions from schools before sending students to classes.
Advisory for Parents and Students
Authorities and school managements have urged families to remain cautious and stay updated through official communication channels. Parents and students are advised to:
- Monitor school and college notices through SMS, WhatsApp groups, and websites
- Avoid travel until clarity on transport availability is received
- Follow district administration and police advisories
- Prepare for possible last-minute schedule changes
Focus on Safety and Communication
Education officials have stressed that the safety of students will remain the top priority. Institutions have been asked to ensure timely communication with parents regarding closures or changes in class schedules.
With uncertainty surrounding transport and public movement, parents and students across Karnataka are being urged to stay informed and be prepared for temporary disruptions to academic activities on February 12.