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Trade unions and farmer groups have called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh to protest labour reforms, privatization, and rising inflation. Massive demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar highlight demands for minimum wages, job security, and stronger worker protections across sectors.
New Delhi: More than ten major trade unions, along with farmer organizations, have launched a nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12 to protest against the Centre’s labour policies, privatization moves, and recent labour law reforms. The demonstration saw a large gathering of workers’ representatives at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where leaders and members of All India Trade Unions voiced strong opposition to what they describe as anti-worker policies.
According to union leaders, the newly introduced labour codes weaken employee rights and threaten job security. They argue that the reforms favor corporates at the expense of workers, reducing safeguards related to wages, working conditions, and social security protections.
At the heart of the protest are several major demands. Workers are calling for stronger labour protections, fair implementation of minimum wages, and withdrawal or revision of the new labour codes. They are also opposing the expansion of contractual employment practices, claiming that contract systems undermine job stability and long-term security.
Leaders and members of All India Trade Unions staged a demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, pressing for reforms in labour laws and other key demands. Representatives of labour organisations from across the country raised their voices on issues including inflation, minimum… pic.twitter.com/xxFhtOsTtV
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Rising inflation has added to their concerns, with unions demanding measures to control price rise and protect workers’ purchasing power. Leaders emphasized that unless the government provides clear assurances and takes concrete steps to safeguard workers’ interests, the agitation will continue.
Representatives from across the country gathered at Jantar Mantar, raising slogans and highlighting issues related to employment security, social protection, and wage fairness. The protest, covered live by media outlets, reflected growing dissatisfaction among sections of the workforce.
Union leaders stated that the movement is not limited to one sector but includes workers from banking, transport, public services, and industrial units. They claim that around 30 crore workers could participate in the strike, making it one of the largest coordinated labour actions in recent years.
The Bharat Bandh is expected to affect banking services, public transportation, and certain government offices. Public sector banks, transport networks, and industries may experience disruptions. States such as Kerala and Odisha, where trade unions have strong organizational influence, are likely to witness a more pronounced impact.
Organizers insist the protest is aimed at protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that economic reforms do not come at the cost of labour welfare. As the strike unfolds, its scale and public response could significantly shape the ongoing debate over labour reforms in India.
