Historic Strike Launched Against Labour Codes and Trade Agreements
On February 12, 2026, over 30 crore workers, farmers, and various employee groups across India participated in a significant one-day general strike. The call for this protest was made jointly by central trade unions and the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, aimed at opposing four controversial Labour Codes and recent Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) being negotiated with the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom.
The strike mobilized participants from more than 600 districts nationwide, significantly impacting sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and services. Despite its scale, officials reported that normal life remained largely unaffected, with public services continuing to operate smoothly.
Context and Reasons for the Strike
The general strike represents a growing unrest among various sectors, stemming from dissatisfaction with government policies perceived as detrimental to workers and farmers. Union representatives highlighted multiple issues, including the Draft Seeds Bill, Electricity (Amendment) Bill, SHANTI Act, and others, as part of their demands for repeal and withdrawal.
The ongoing economic landscape, characterized by discontent over fluctuating minimum support prices crucial for farmers, further fueled grievances, leading to this unprecedented mobilization of workers and farmers alike. “The situation reflects deep-rooted anger among working people against FTAs and various regulatory frameworks that they believe favor corporate interests over their rights,” a leader from the trade unions stated.
Widespread Mobilization and Participation
Impact on Various Sectors
The strike’s reach extended beyond traditional unions, mobilizing employees from multinational corporations, metal industries, and even the defence sector. Reports from union officials indicated that significant participation was observed in industrial regions, where workers organized processions to express solidarity.
In addition to this, railway unions joined forces, staging solidarity actions that highlighted the collective frustrations felt by the working class. “We saw an overwhelming response indicating unity among workers and farmers. This is a potent demonstration of resistance against policies seen as anti-worker and pro-corporate,” said G. Devarajan, a leader from the Trade Union Coordination Centre.
Regional Highlights
Specific regions saw notable protests, particularly in urban centers where large groups rallied at strategic locations. Reports highlighted significant gatherings in cities like Bengaluru, where demonstrators voiced their concerns loudly while adhering to the strike call.
Across various states, from Punjab to Tamil Nadu, resistance was palpable, with local leaders echoing the sentiment of collaboration between workers and farmers as a vital component of the mass resistance against government policies. This successful strike illustrates a seamless integration of worker and farmer interests in the current socio-political climate.
Union Leaders Speak Out
The leaders from the Samyukt Kisan Morcha emphasized the strike’s importance by lauding the extensive participation as a historical moment in independent India, marking one of the largest general strikes to date. “Today’s collective action underscores the unity of workers and peasants as they push back against policies that prioritize corporate gains over public welfare,” stated an SKM spokesperson.
The unions also noted that anger was directed towards the denial of adequate minimum support prices, which they believe significantly contribute to the ongoing crisis affecting farmers and lead to tragic incidents of suicides.
Government Response
While the government has remained relatively silent in the immediate aftermath of the strike, previous actions have indicated a tendency to seek dialogue with unions to address concerns. However, the unions expressed skepticism, urging decisive action on their demands rather than mere discussions.
The next steps for organized labor will be outlined in a meeting scheduled for February 24 at Kurukshetra, Haryana, where the national council of SKM is set to discuss future strategies. “We call on the government to listen to the voices of millions who participated today and to cease its anti-people policies,” a representative stated.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
This historic strike serves as a critical juncture in the relationship between labor groups and government policies. The extensive participation reflects a broader trend of mounting resistance against perceived inequities in economic governance.
As unions and farmer groups continue to organize and articulate their demands, the government may be compelled to reconsider its approach. Continued mobilization and dialogue will likely shape the future of labor relations in India, establishing essential frameworks for cooperation and negotiation.
The tone of the protests indicates a sustained commitment from these groups, reinforcing their resolve to advocate for rights and protections in a rapidly changing economic environment.