The CITU and Left-affiliated organizations of Tripura organized protest programs against the new labour codes. Protesters demanded repeal of the labour reforms, restoration of workers’ rights, revival of MGNREGA, and immediate release of detained workers linked to ongoing labour unrest in Noida and other states.
Quick Glance
- CITU and Left organizations held statewide protests in Tripura against new labour codes.
- Demonstrators alleged that the labour reforms weaken workers’ rights and benefit corporate houses.
- Protesters demanded revival of MGNREGA and guarantee of 200 days of employment.
- Agitations took place in Agartala and Dharmanagar under the nationwide “Demand Day” campaign.
CITU Holds Protest Against Labour Codes in Tripura
Agartala/Dharmanagar: Trade unions and Left-backed mass organizations intensified their protest against the Centre’s labour reforms across Tripura on Tuesday. The demonstrations formed part of the nationwide “Demand Day” campaign organized by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and other central trade union platforms.
The protest programs took place in several locations, including Agartala and Dharmanagar. Protesters raised slogans against the labour codes and accused the Central Government of diluting workers’ rights in favour of large corporate groups.
Leaders also expressed solidarity with workers’ movements currently taking place in Noida, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Gujarat.
Agartala Protest Targets Labour Reforms
In Agartala, workers, trade union activists, and supporters joined a protest rally organized by CITU. The program began with a demonstration meeting. Later, protesters marched through city roads before reaching the Labour Commissioner’s office.
During the agitation, demonstrators symbolically burned copies of the labour codes and related rules.
CITU leaders claimed the new labour codes threaten hard-earned labour rights achieved through decades of workers’ struggles. According to the speakers, workers across India now face growing uncertainty over wages, job security, and workplace protections.
The leaders alleged that the Central Government pushed the labour reforms immediately after Assembly elections in five states. They argued that the reforms primarily favour corporate houses and industrial owners.
Protesters further claimed that workers protesting in Noida and Greater Noida have faced police action and legal cases. According to union leaders, authorities arrested several workers and filed FIRs against nearly 1,800 individuals linked to labour demonstrations.
The speakers also alleged that trade union leaders were placed under house arrest in some regions to stop them from participating in the movement.
Protesters Demand Release of Detained Workers
During the Agartala rally, union leaders demanded immediate release of detained workers and withdrawal of all cases filed against them.
The demonstrators also demanded:
| Key Demands | Details |
|---|---|
| Repeal of Labour Codes | Protesters termed the labour reforms anti-worker |
| Release of Workers | Immediate release of arrested workers |
| Withdrawal of FIRs | Cancellation of legal cases against labour activists |
| Job Restoration | Reinstatement of terminated workers |
| Fair Wages | Assurance of proper wage payment |
| Employment Guarantee | 200 days of work under welfare schemes |
The protest remained peaceful despite strong criticism of government policies.
Workers raised slogans against privatization, corporate-driven reforms, and suppression of labour movements.
Dharmanagar Witnesses Joint Rally
A similar protest program took place in Dharmanagar under the banner of five Left-oriented organizations.
The rally was organized following a call by the joint platform of central trade unions observing National Demand Day across the country.
The protest focused on several major demands. These included repeal of labour codes, revival of the MGNREGA scheme, guarantee of 200 days of work, and financial support for families affected by recent storms and hailstorms in Tripura.
The rally began from the CPI(M) Dharmanagar Sub-Divisional office premises in the afternoon. Workers, farmers, women activists, agricultural labourers, and tribal organization members participated in the procession.
The rally later reached Bhagat Singh Corner, where organizers held a street meeting.
Left Leaders Criticize Centre’s Labour Policies
Several Left leaders addressed the gathering and criticized the Centre’s labour and economic policies.
Among those present were Islam Uddin, MLA of Kurti-Kadamtala Assembly constituency, Shailendra Chandra Nath, MLA of Yuvrajnagar Assembly constituency, and CITU state vice-president Amitabh Dutta.
The speakers alleged that authorities are attempting to suppress democratic workers’ movements by using state machinery.
CITU leader Amitabh Dutta stated that workers across the country continue to fight for fair wages, social security, and employment rights. He demanded immediate withdrawal of the labour codes and restoration of welfare-based employment schemes.
He also called for quick financial assistance for families affected by recent natural disasters in Tripura.
Sr Leaders Join Dharmanagar Program
Several senior leaders and activists attended the Dharmanagar protest.
Notable participants included Ratan Roy, Shashanka Majumdar, Niranjan Debnath, and Jaharul Haque.
Representatives from women’s organizations, farmers’ bodies, tribal groups, and agricultural labour unions also joined the agitation.
Growing Opposition Against Labour Codes
The protests highlighted growing opposition to labour reforms among trade unions and Left organizations in Tripura and other parts of India.
Union leaders warned that nationwide agitations could intensify if the government does not address workers’ demands. They reiterated that workers would continue democratic protests until authorities withdraw the labour codes and restore labour protections.
The demonstrations in Agartala and Dharmanagar reflected the broader national debate surrounding labour reforms, employment security, and workers’ welfare in India.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Why did CITU organize protests in Tripura?
CITU organized the protests to oppose the new labour codes and demand protection of workers’ rights, fair wages, and employment security.
What were the main demands of the protesters?
The protesters demanded repeal of labour codes, revival of MGNREGA, guarantee of 200 days of work, release of detained workers, and withdrawal of FIRs.
Where were the protests held in Tripura?
Major protest programs took place in Agartala and Dharmanagar as part of the nationwide Demand Day campaign.