Nationwide Strike Sees Millions Participate
A significant nationwide strike unfolded on February 12, 2026, as various trade unions mobilized a staggering 30 crore workers to protest the Indian government’s new labour policies. The strike aimed to address what participating unions described as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate initiatives, emphasizing demands for immediate policy reforms.
Beginning early Thursday morning, the strike saw rallies organized across major cities, including Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Kerala’s Kannur and Kasaragod districts. The Joint Action Committee of Labour and Farmers’ Unions led the significant protests, reflecting widespread discontent among workers and farmers alike.
Context of the Protests
The protests were driven by growing concern regarding new labour codes that trade unions argue undermine employee rights and protections. Union leaders contend that these new laws reduce job security and weaken legal safeguards, promoting corporate interests at the expense of the working class.
Several trade union leaders highlighted the legitimacy of their grievances, asserting that the central government’s policies threaten not just livelihoods but also the very fabric of societal fairness and justice. Reports of participation streamed in from various states, underscoring the strikes’ extensive footprint.
State-by-State Breakdown
Kerala Grounded by Protests
In Kerala, the strike brought life to a complete standstill in districts such as Kannur and Kasaragod. Trade unions organized protest marches toward railway stations, stopping traffic and disrupting normal activities. Union leaders warned that private vehicles would be halted in solidarity with the strike, emphasizing the urgency of their demands against the labour codes.
Telangana and Tamil Nadu Participation
In Telangana, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) staged significant demonstrations in Sangareddy, showcasing wide participation. Meanwhile, various unions in Tamil Nadu joined the fray, particularly in Erode, further amplifying calls for government accountability.
Karnataka Sees Large Numbers
Karnataka’s participation was anticipated to exceed two lakh workers, comprising both organized and unorganized sectors. Reports indicated that significant disruptions occurred, with many workers standing in solidarity against the new labour laws.
Madhya Pradesh’s Civil Defence Employees Support
In a show of solidarity, over 25,000 civilian employees in Madhya Pradesh’s defence establishments reported to work an hour late. While AIDEF President S.N. Pathak stated that they could not fully participate due to essential services constraints, their late arrival still signified their support for the strike.
Mixed Reactions in Gujarat and West Bengal
In Gujarat, reports indicated a low impact of the strike, as many workers continued with their normal routines without disruption. However, police confirmed that trade union members staged symbolic protests in cities like Ahmedabad.
In sharp contrast, the strike seemingly failed to gain traction in West Bengal. Public transportation and state services operated as usual, with schools remaining open, showcasing regional variances in response to the nationwide call.
Political Backing and Union Statements
Political backing for the strike came from various parties, including prominent endorsements from Left parties and the Congress. Congress General Secretary Rakesh Sinha remarked, “The new labour codes have reduced job security, weakened legal safeguards, and increased employers’ freedom to hire, adversely affecting the rights and interests of workers.”
Many union leaders expressed that the protests aimed to shine a light on what they believe is a systematic attempt to suppress workers’ rights. CPI(ML) State Secretary Manoj Bhakt characterized the new labour codes as “a direct attack on the rights of the working class,” emphasizing their need for immediate repeal.
Reactions from the Public and Workers
For many workers at the rallies, participation was deeply personal. One protestor in Hyderabad stated, “We are here because these laws affect our jobs, our families, and our future. We need our voices to be heard.”
Other public responses varied, ranging from support for the unions’ aims to frustration at the disruption in daily life caused by the strike. Local businesses and civilians expressed mixed views, with some highlighting the need for workers’ rights while others lamented the inconvenience caused by the protests.
Conclusion and Moving Forward
The national strike against the government’s policies reflects a growing sense of urgency among labour and farmer groups advocating for better working conditions. Despite varied public response and regional differences, the strikes symbolize a critical moment in India’s labour rights discourse.
Looking ahead, the unions have expressed plans to escalate their efforts if their demands remain unmet, indicating that the government’s next moves will be closely scrutinized by the public and the media alike.