Trade Unions' Strike: AITUC Slams Goa Govt: Workers Forced into 14-16 Hour Shifts
Naik criticized Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for failing to address workers’ grievances
All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) secretary Suhas Naik accused the Goa government of ignoring rampant labor exploitation, claiming industrial workers in the state are forced to work 14-16 hour shifts without overtime pay.
Speaking at a massive rally at Azad Maidan in Panaji on Wednesday, Naik joined a nationwide general strike led by 10 central trade unions and farmers’ groups, including AITUC, to protest the central and state governments’ “anti-labor and anti-farmer” policies, particularly the four new labour codes.
Naik criticized Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for failing to address workers’ grievances, noting that complaints against company managements are routinely ignored, forcing workers to seek justice in courts. He condemned the BJP-led NDA government’s labour codes as “exploitative” and “pro-corporate,” arguing they dismantle decades of labor protections, curb union activities, and increase inequality.
Also Read: Bharat Bandh: Over 25 Crore Workers to Strike on July 9, 2025, Against Anti-Worker Policies
The AITUC leader also slammed the state’s frequent use of the Goa Essential Services and Maintenance Act (ESMA) to suppress strikes in the pharmaceutical sector, a key economic driver, alleging it shields companies violating labor laws. The strike, part of a broader Bharat Bandh, saw strong participation across sectors, with unions demanding the repeal of the labour codes, a minimum wage of ₹26,000 per month, and enhanced social security.
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