Intro:
CITU has announced a protest march in Hubballi on February 12, demanding action on workers’ pressing issues.
Hubballi
The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has announced a city-level protest march in Hubballi on February 12, highlighting a range of issues affecting workers across sectors. The announcement was made by CITU leader Mahesh Pattar, who called upon workers and labour unions to participate in large numbers.
Addressing the media in Hubballi, Mahesh Pattar said the protest march is being organised to draw the attention of the government and authorities towards what he described as growing hardships faced by the working class. He alleged that price rise, unemployment, dilution of labour laws, and privatisation of public sector units have severely impacted the livelihoods of workers, especially those in the unorganised sector.
Pattar stated that despite repeated representations and appeals, the concerns of workers have remained largely unaddressed. The cost of living is rising every day, while wages remain stagnant. Job security has weakened, and workers’ rights are being systematically eroded. The protest on February 12 is meant to send a strong message that workers will not remain silent, he said.
According to CITU, the protest march will pass through key areas of Hubballi city and culminate in a public meeting where union leaders will address the gathering. Demands to be raised during the agitation include withdrawal of labour law amendments perceived as anti-worker, strict enforcement of minimum wage norms, protection of contract and daily wage workers, and steps to curb price rise of essential commodities.
Mahesh Pattar also criticised what he termed as the government’s failure to create adequate employment opportunities for youth. He warned that if policies continue to favour corporates at the cost of workers, social and economic inequality would further widen. Development cannot be achieved by ignoring the backbone of the economy — the working class, he asserted.
CITU leaders said preparations for the protest are underway, with awareness campaigns being conducted in industrial areas, markets, and residential localities to mobilise support. Trade unions affiliated with CITU across Dharwad district are expected to participate in the march.
