By Agartala Correspondent | Tripura 24.in AGARTALA | April 1, 2026
AGARTALA: Joining the nationwide “Black Day” observation, the All Tripura Unorganized Workers’ Congress (KKC) organized a spirited demonstration in front of the Tripura Pradesh Congress Bhavan today. The protest was aimed at the central government’s decision to implement the four new Labour Codes, which the wing has labeled as “Kala Kanoon” (Black Laws) that threaten the survival of millions in the informal sector.
The demonstration saw a large gathering of daily-wage earners, construction workers, and street vendors, all raising slogans demanding the immediate withdrawal of the legislative changes.
Demanding Rights for the Marginalized
The leadership of the Unorganized Workers’ Congress argued that while the codes are touted as “reforms,” they actually provide a backdoor for corporations to exploit laborers without the safety net of existing laws.
Primary Objections Raised:
- Job Insecurity: The protesters expressed fear that the new codes promote “Fixed Term Employment,” making it easier for employers to fire workers without notice or compensation.
- Loss of Social Security: Leaders pointed out that nearly 90% of India’s workforce belongs to the unorganized sector and the new codes do little to guarantee benefits like ESI, Provident Fund, or a living wage for them.
- Working Hour Extensions: The group slammed the provision that allows for 12-hour work shifts, calling it a return to “colonial-era exploitation.”
Voices from the Leadership
Addressing the gathering at Post Office Choumohoni, Shantanu Pal, Chairman of the All Tripura Unorganized Workers’ Congress, stated that the Congress party will not remain a silent spectator while the rights of the poor are being bartered.
”The Modi government is trying to turn our workers into modern-day slaves to please their corporate friends. These labor codes have been brought without any consultation with the real stakeholders—the workers. From the Congress Bhavan today, we send a clear message: repeal these black codes or face a state-wide ‘Bharat Bandh’ organized by the working class,” Shantanu Pal asserted.
Solidarity with the National Movement
The protest in Agartala was part of a larger coordinated effort by the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) and other opposition-aligned labor wings across the country.
Key Leaders Present:
- Shantanu Pal: Chairman, All Tripura Unorganized Workers’ Congress.
- Tanmoy Saha: Sadar District Congress President.
- Prabir Chakraborty: Congress Spokesperson.
- Several other block-level coordinators and representatives of various artisan guilds.
Action Plan: Village-to-Village Campaign
The organization announced that following today’s protest, they would launch a “Shramik Nyay” (Justice for Workers) campaign across all eight districts of Tripura. The goal is to educate rural laborers about how the new codes might affect their livelihoods and to mobilize them for a larger central rally in the coming months.
The protest concluded with the symbolic burning of copies of the Labour Codes, as activists vowed to continue their agitation until the government restores the original 29 labor laws.
