Agartala, January 11, 2026: In a significant move to mobilize the working class against the policies of the state and central governments, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) organized a convention for transport workers on Sunday. The meeting, held at the CITU office hall, focused on garnering support for the upcoming nationwide general strike scheduled for February 12, 2026.
Manik Dey Slams “Anti-Worker” Policies
The convention was presided over by senior Left leader and former Transport Minister Manik Dey. Addressing the gathering of motor workers and transport laborers, Dey launched a scathing attack on the government, characterizing their recent actions as a “barbaric assault” on the rights of the working class.
He emphasized that the strike on February 12 is a direct response to:
- Draconian Labour Codes: The replacement of existing labor laws with four new codes that unions argue will curtail the right to protest and organize.
- Extortion at Motor Stands: Allegations of widespread extortion and harassment of non-ruling party-affiliated workers at various motor stands across Tripura.
- Economic Distress: Rising fuel prices and the lack of a proper state transport policy, which have left thousands of drivers and helpers struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
Call for Total Shutdown on February 12
Other senior leaders present at the convention echoed these sentiments, urging the transport community to ensure a total shutdown of services on the day of the strike. They highlighted that the transport sector is the backbone of the economy and its participation is crucial to making the government feel the “power of the working class.”
“The government is trying to silence us by snatching away our social security and democratic rights,” Manik Dey stated during the briefing. “This convention is just the beginning. On February 12, the wheels of transport will stop to send a clear message against this exploitation.”
Strategic Planning for the Strike
The convention concluded with the formation of local coordination committees to reach out to every motor stand and garage across the state. The leaders urged workers to remain united despite “intimidation tactics” and to participate spontaneously in the strike to protect their future.
