A state-level convention of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) was held at Agartala Town Hall on Sunday to mobilize support for the nationwide general strike scheduled for May 20. The strike, called by 10 central trade unions, federations, and various organizations, aims to protest against the alleged anti-worker policies of the government.
The convention was attended by CITU State President Manik Dey, General Secretary Shankar Prasad Dutta, and other senior leaders. Addressing the gathering, General Secretary Shankar Prasad Dutta highlighted the worsening plight of daily wage earners and women workers under the current administration. He accused the government of implementing policies that have widened economic inequality, pushing more people into poverty while benefiting a select few.
Dutta also voiced strong opposition to the proposed Labour Code Act, asserting that it would curtail workers’ rights, restrict their ability to unionize, and suppress their freedom to protest. He emphasized that such policies are designed to favor corporate entities while sidelining the genuine concerns of the working class. According to him, the erosion of labor rights will create an insecure and vulnerable workforce, making it difficult for workers to demand fair wages and better working conditions.
CITU State President Manik Dey echoed these concerns, alleging that the government has neglected the working class and fostered divisions to weaken labor movements. He criticized the administration for failing to address rising unemployment, inflation, and job insecurity, which have severely impacted millions of workers across the country. He further pointed out that privatization of public sector units and dilution of labor laws are additional tactics being used to exploit workers.
Both leaders stressed the need for a united mass movement to counter these policies and urged workers to actively participate in the May 20 strike. They called upon trade unions, civil society organizations, and citizens to stand in solidarity against what they described as the erosion of workers’ rights and social justice.
The convention saw significant attendance from workers, activists, and supporters from various sectors, signaling growing unrest and solidarity within the labor sector. Many attendees expressed their frustration over declining job security, stagnant wages, and increasing economic disparity. The event concluded with a strong resolution to intensify the movement in the days leading up to the general strike, with organizers planning awareness campaigns and demonstrations to highlight the grievances of workers across the state.
