Shimla Echoes with Protests Against New Labour Codes

Protesters in Shimla, led by CITU, opposed new labour codes, citing weakened worker rights. Accusing the Centre of exploitation, they demanded fair wages and raised concerns over increased employment terms. The protest is part of a national movement against the recently implemented policies.

Workers associated with CITU staged a vehement protest outside Shimla's Deputy Commissioner's office on Tuesday, expressing strong opposition to the Central Government's recent implementation of new labour codes. The demonstrators, rallying under the trade union's banner, accused the Centre of undermining worker rights and escalating labour exploitation.

State President of CITU, Vijender Mehara, addressed the assembly, emphasizing solidarity with the nationwide workers' movements. He highlighted that those advocating for higher wages amidst soaring inflation are facing police crackdowns, legal cases, and arrests. Mehara revealed that the unions are advocating for a minimum wage of Rs 30,000 to tackle increasing living costs.

Mehara critiqued the recently enforced labour laws, claiming they were developed during the pandemic and posited to trigger detrimental effects on workers nationwide. Highlighting concerns like extended working hours and weakened legal protections, Mehara also warned that 70 percent of establishments might evade the scope of these laws, leading to greater exploitation.