Labour unions protest against new codes

Members of various labor unions and associations protested against the new labor laws introduced by the Union government, terming them anti-labour.

In Belagavi, activists of the Center of Indian Trade Unions burned a copy of the rules, saying they legalized institutional slavery.

“These laws take away our rights. They exempt any company or organization that employs less than 12 people from all labor laws. They extend working hours, reduce compensation and other rights, as well as regulatory powers of government agencies. They also reduce all permanent jobs to temporary contract jobs. These laws are made for the benefit of companies and large businesses, not workers,” said regional coordinator Gaibu Jainekhan.

In Karwar, leaders burned copies of the codes at Subhas Circle and shouted slogans against the Union government.

A protest march was held on the main streets of the city. They marched from Maladevi Maidan to the Deputy Commissioner’s office.

The protesters demanded the President to withdraw the Central government’s new labor policies. They also urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah not to implement them.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Sajid Mulla received the presentations.

CITU regional vice president Yamuna Gaonkar and activists were present.

In Hubballi, protesters submitted a memorandum to the government. They took out a protest march carrying banners and shouting slogans against the Union government.