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Over 250 Million Workers Across India Stage Nationwide Strike Against Government Policies


India witnessed one of its largest coordinated labor protests in recent years as more than 250 million workers from diverse sectors participated in the nationwide  strike called by a coalition of 10 central trade unions on Wednesday. The strike, supported by farmers’ and rural workers’ organizations, aimed to protest against what the unions described as the central government’s “pro-corporate, anti-worker, and anti-farmer” policies.


The unions behind the strike include major players such as the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), and others. Notably, the Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) did not join the strike.


Reasons Behind the Strike

The protest was triggered by the government’s failure to address a 17-point demand list submitted by the unions last year, which includes calls for a minimum wage of ₹26,000, restoration of the old pension scheme, and a halt to the privatization of public sector units. The unions also condemned the four new labor codes passed by Parliament, arguing these laws undermine workers’ rights by making strikes more difficult, extending working hours, and shielding employers from penalties for labor violations.


The unions highlighted the government’s decade-long failure to convene the Indian Labour Conference, a key forum for labor dialogue, and expressed concerns over rising unemployment and economic inequality.


Impact Across the Country

The strike brought significant disruption to banking, postal services, electricity, mining, construction, and public transportation in both urban and rural areas. Major industrial hubs, state capitals, and district centers witnessed rallies, demonstrations, and shutdowns.


In West Bengal, clashes between Left-backed union workers and police led to lathicharges as protesters tried to enforce the bandh. Rail services were disrupted in several districts, and roads were blocked in multiple locations. Shops and businesses in Kolkata and other cities remained shut, giving the city a deserted look.


Kerala saw widespread closures of shops and malls in solidarity, though state-run KSRTC buses continued to operate. Odisha witnessed highway blockades by trade union members in Bhubaneswar.


In contrast, metropolitan cities like Delhi and Mumbai experienced less disruption, with many public services continuing to function, albeit with some delays.


Political Responses

The Indian National Congress pledged to raise the issues behind the Bharat Bandh in Parliament, criticizing the government’s economic policies and privatization agenda. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge vowed to support workers and farmers in their fight against what they termed crony capitalism.


Historical Context

This strikes marks the 22nd general strike since India’s economic liberalization in 1991, underscoring persistent tensions between labor forces and government economic reforms.


The massive participation and widespread impact of the July 9 Bharat Bandh reflect deep-rooted dissatisfaction among India’s workforce with current labor policies and economic management. The unions have signaled that further protests may follow if their demands remain unaddressed, setting the stage for continued labor unrest in the coming months.

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