New Delhi, November 23: Unions have called for a nationwide protest as workers feel that the four new labour codes implemented on November 21, replacing the old 29 laws, do not provide enough job security and increase worker exploitation.
Major Concerns for Unions
They argue that the new codes favor employers over employees and undermine the country’s welfare character. Major trade unions like INTUC, AITUC, CITU and SEWA have openly opposed the codes. They fear 12-hour shifts will affect, tire, and exploit workers. According to the codes, a new layoff limit has been set, which is higher than before. This makes it easier for companies to fire workers in bulk. Workers also feel the security promises are far too little compared to what employees lose. As companies are now permitted to employ women even for night shifts, the unions question whether the night shifts will have a safe environment.
The opposition has also attacked the current government by stating that the rollout was “undemocratic” and the rights of workers have been weakened. They have also claimed that the government is siding with big companies.
Nationwide Protest on November 26
On November 26, the joint platform of central trade unions has called for a nationwide protest, where workers will wear black badges and hold street corner meetings and community gatherings. Samyukt Kisan Morcha has also aligned with them for a “joint action of defiance”. Workers have demanded that both the new codes and the Shram Shakti Niti 2025 should be scrapped. They have also mentioned that for the government, it’s a power play, and they are favoring big companies over the voices of labourers. Workers have named the reforms as “anti-worker”.
A Deeper Conflict
The fight over these labour codes signals a deeper conflict about how India as a country will develop, where the working class, which is the foundation of any system, remains dissatisfied.
Also Read | Four Labour Codes Effective: 29 Old Laws Replaced, New Rights for 500 Million Workers
