10 central trade unions of the country have once again announced a major agitation against the policies of the central government. This time a record number of more than 30 crore workers are expected to participate in the nationwide general strike called on 12th February. This strike is being organized in protest against the ‘anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national, pro-corporate policies’ of the government.
The Joint Trade Union Forum has claimed that the impact of this strike will be much wider than all the previous demonstrations. This time workers will take to the streets in about 600 districts of the country, whereas last time this figure was limited to about 550 districts. Extensive campaigns have been conducted at the district and block level regarding preparations for the strike.
Fear of complete shutdown in Assam and Odisha
Amarjeet Kaur, General Secretary of All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), gave detailed information on the scale of this nationwide strike. He said that on the basis of strong preparations made at the ground level, it is being claimed that the strike will be successful.
According to trade unions, the strike will have a deep impact in BJP ruled states also. There is a possibility of complete shutdown especially in Assam and Odisha, while its impact will be huge in other states also.
Farmers and labor organizations united
The biggest strength of this strike is the unity of labor and farmer organizations. Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has announced to join the protest with full force, supporting the demands of the trade unions.
Similarly, the United Front of Agricultural Laborer Unions is also an important part of this campaign. This front is especially emphasizing on the demand for restoration of ‘MNREGA’ as before. The impact of the strike is expected to be visible across government, public and private sector institutions to industrial sectors, across urban and rural India alike. At many places, students and youth groups are also joining this campaign and extending their support.
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