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Chennai: Tamil Nadu faced minimal disruptions in few parts today as central trade unions’ nationwide strike received  support from 13 labour organizations across the state. The protest, demanding reversal of recent economic policies, has crippled public transport, banking services, and government operations, prompting the state administration to issue stern warnings of disciplinary action against participating employees.

The strike’s impact was seen less early morning as only few of MTC buses remained parked in depots across Chennai, while autorickshaw unions joined the protest in few places. Queues formed at metro stations and railway terminals as commuters scrambled for alternative transport.

Bharat Bandh: Tamil Nadu govt enforces ‘no work, no pay’ rule for striking staff

Banking operations came to a complete standstill with employees’ unions joining the agitation. The striking unions – including CITU, AITUC, and DMK’s labour wing – have united under a 17-point charter demanding immediate withdrawal of the new pension scheme, permanent status for contract workers, and reversal of recent labour code reforms.

Notably, the AIADMK-affiliated Anna Trade Union has conspicuously abstained from the protest, creating visible political divisions.

The Tamil Nadu administration has adopted a hard line stance, with Chief Secretary Muruganandam issuing a circular threatening severe consequences for participating employees. The directive mandates strict “no work, no pay” implementation and immediate disciplinary action, including potential termination for daily-wage workers.

All department heads have been ordered to submit attendance reports by 10:15 am, with special monitoring of education and revenue departments where protest participation appears highest. Security has been heightened around secretariat buildings and major government complexes, with police deploying additional forces at potential protest sites.

Despite the threats, Federation of Revenue Unions coordinator Arulraj remained defiant: “We’re prepared to face consequences but won’t betray the working class struggle.” The strike has exposed political contradictions, with the ruling DMK’s labour wing supporting the agitation while the state government enforces punitive measures.

The labour unrest comes amid rising inflation and growing discontent over privatization of public sector units, setting the stage for prolonged confrontations between workers and the establishment.

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