Workers Oppose Increase in Working Hours, Back Nationwide Strike

Davanagere

A large protest was held in Davanagere on Wednesday under the leadership of the Joint Committee of Trade Unions (JCTU), where workers voiced strong opposition to the central government's labor policies and privatization plans. Protesters accused the government of adopting anti-farmer and anti-worker stances and extended their full support to the 'All India General Strike' called by trade unions nationwide.

Hundreds of workers gathered at Jayadeva Circle, holding red flags and placards, raising slogans demanding the protection of labor rights. They condemned the proposed increase in working hours and called for the effective implementation of the Minimum Wage Act. Protesters also criticized the amendments to labor laws and expressed outrage over the exploitation of labor in both public and private sectors.

Prof. A.B. Ramachandrappa of the Humanity Forum, who flagged off the protest march, said, “This city once stood for revolutionary ideals. Today, in the face of rising saffronisation, the renewed worker’s movement represents the return of progressive values.” He reminded that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had constitutionally fixed the working hours at eight per day. Increasing it to 12 or 14 hours is akin to modern-day bonded labor, he warned.

He also denounced the privatization of 27 public sector enterprises, including Indian Railways and Air India, terming it a move to suppress workers’ power. “India’s true strength lies in the hands of its workers, not capitalists. Public sector units must remain under government control,” he asserted.

The protest sent a strong message to the government, urging it to protect labor rights, withdraw anti-worker amendments, and halt the privatization of national assets in the name of progress.