Bengal Braces for Nationwide Strike as Trade Unions Protest Labour Policies
The Trinamool Congress, in power since 2011, has consistently opposed strike calls, citing their impact on productivity.
A nationwide general strike, led by 10 central trade unions and backed by Left parties, disrupted parts of West Bengal on Wednesday, starting at 6 am. Protesters attempted to halt train services at Diamond Harbour in the Sealdah South section and Shyamnagar in the North Section of Eastern Railways' Sealdah division, while also blocking roads in areas like Jalpaiguri, Asansol, and Bankura.
The strike, aimed at opposing liberalisation, rising essential commodity prices, unemployment, and increasing contractual labour, also targeted the new labour code and PSU privatisation. Anadi Sahu, West Bengal CITU president, highlighted these issues as central to the unions' grievances. While the central government claims the consolidation of 44 labour laws into four codes benefits workers, Left unions argue it undermines their rights.
To counter disruptions, the Trinamool Congress-led state government deployed extensive security and transport measures. Police were stationed at key locations to maintain traffic flow, and additional buses were arranged to ensure commuters could reach workplaces. The state also mandated attendance for all government employees, reflecting its firm stance against bandhs, which it says cause significant economic losses.
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The Trinamool Congress, in power since 2011, has consistently opposed strike calls, citing their impact on productivity. Despite the protests, authorities worked to ensure minimal disruption to daily life across West Bengal.
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