By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in AGARTALA | April 1, 2026
AGARTALA: Marking a significant escalation in the struggle against central labor policies, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) organized a massive joint protest in the capital today. The demonstration was held to vehemently oppose the central government’s move to implement four new Labour Codes, which the organizations have termed “anti-worker” and “pro-corporate.”
The protest began with a spirited rally from the CPI(M) West District Office at Melarmath, winding through the main streets of Agartala before converging in front of the Labour Department at Office Lane.
“Black Day” for Labour Rights
The protest coincided with the “Black Day” observation called by central trade unions nationwide. Protesters carried black flags and shouted slogans demanding the immediate withdrawal of the four codes—the Code on Wages, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code, and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code.
Key Grievances Highlighted:
- Erosion of Rights: Leaders argued that the new codes scrap 29 existing labor laws that were won through decades of struggle, effectively stripping workers of basic protections.
- Working Hours: Concerns were raised about provisions that could allow employers to extend working hours from 8 to 12 hours a day.
- Collective Bargaining: The unions allege that the new rules make it significantly harder to register trade unions and participate in legal strikes.
- Hire and Fire: The protesters slammed the “fixed-term employment” model, which they claim promotes a “hire and fire” culture, leaving the youth without job security.
Voices from the Protest
A massive gathering was held in front of the Labour Department, where veteran leaders addressed the crowd.
Prominent Leaders Present:
- Palash Bhowmik: President, DYFI Tripura State Committee.
- Nabarun Deb: Secretary, DYFI Tripura State Committee.
- Joydeep Raut: Secretary, Sadar Divisional Committee.
- Several representatives from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, emphasizing the unity between the “Khet-Majdoor” (agricultural laborers) and industrial workers.
- Immediate Repeal of the four Labour Codes.
- Minimum Wage of ₹26,000 per month for all workers.
- Universal Social Security and a minimum pension of ₹10,000 for the elderly.
- Halt on Privatization of public sector undertakings (PSUs).
