Trade Unions Call for General Strike
A coalition of ten Central Trade Unions (CTUs) has declared a general strike set for February 12, 2026, in response to the Indian government’s implementation of four controversial Labour Codes. The announcement followed a national convention in Delhi on January 9, where trade union leaders expressed strong discontent with the government’s policies.
The union leaders are protesting against draft rules published by the Union Labour Ministry, which they argue will weaken the influence of trade unions and diminish workers’ rights. They have threatened to escalate their actions to an indefinite strike if their demands are not met.
Background on Labour Codes
The government introduced the four Labour Codes as a means to streamline labour regulations; however, trade unions argue that these policies are designed to undermine workers’ rights. The CTUs contend that the Codes will facilitate the privatization of key public sector undertakings and unleash further corporate control over the workforce.
“This is an effort to disarm the working class in the face of increasing corporate influence,” stated Elamaram Kareem, a prominent union leader, during the convention. “Workers must unite to combat these anti-labour policies. We cannot stand idly by while the foundational rights of our workforce are eroded.”
Current Economic Concerns
Worsening Economic Conditions
The trade union leaders highlighted a backdrop of worsening economic indicators, including rising unemployment and the increasing cost of living, asserting that the Labour Codes would only exacerbate these issues. They noted that approximately 65 lakh jobs remain unfilled in various government sectors, which they say contributes to the current economic malaise.
“The fundamental services upon which the populace relies are crumbling. The increasing prices of essential commodities are pushing months’ worth of savings to their limit,” a union representative declared. With the commercial sector failing to provide the necessary support, discontent among workers is at an all-time high.
Privatization and Corporate Interests
The CTUs voiced their concerns that the government’s actions favor a select group of corporate entities, both domestic and international. They claimed that critical sectors such as railways, telecommunications, and banking are being handed over to private players at the expense of public interests. Their stance is that tourism, agriculture, and rural sectors, along with small enterprises, are being neglected.
Households are reportedly struggling with the commercialized healthcare and education systems, which they argue are becoming increasingly inaccessible for the average citizen. In a statement, the union representatives called out the government for prioritizing foreign interests over the livelihood of Indian workers.
Responses from the Government and Future Actions
Despite mounting pressure from labor organizations, the government has thus far remained committed to rolling out the Labour Codes as planned. The Central Trade Unions are resolute in their decision to mobilize further actions should the government continue down this path without considering their demands.
If negotiations do not yield favorable outcomes, the CTUs have indicated that they will launch a series of intensified protests and strikes, which could potentially involve multiple-day general strikes across various sectors. “The time for negotiation is running out. If the government is not willing to listen, we are prepared for a prolonged struggle,” a union official warned.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The upcoming general strike on February 12 has the potential to unite workers from diverse sectors and demonstrate the collective strength of the labor movement. The Central Trade Unions are urging workers to participate actively and bolster the call for their rights.
This situation is one that continues to evolve, as both sides prepare for the potential ramifications of the impending strike. As the date approaches, the unions are emphasizing the importance of solidarity among workers across the nation to defend their rights and livelihoods.
For the general public, the CTUs are advocating that support for the strike is integral to the fight not just for worker rights, but for the preservation of democracy and equality in the economic sphere.