Raipur, Feb 12 (NationPress) The National Front of Indian Trade Unions (NFITU) has characterized the Bharat Bandh, which is being observed by various trade unions and farmers' groups nationwide on Thursday, as a "politically driven" initiative allegedly instigated by the Congress and Left parties.

The nationwide Bharat Bandh aims to protest against policies that the unions argue are "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate".

This strike, led by a coalition of ten central trade unions and supported by farmers' bodies, student organizations, and youth groups, seeks to express concerns regarding four Labour Codes, the upcoming Electricity Bill 2025, the Seed Bill 2025, and worries about recent free trade agreements and the VB-G RAM G Act.

Key demands from the protesting groups include the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme and the assurance of minimum wages for workers in all sectors.

NFITU President Deepak Jaiswal, in a conversation with IANS, criticized the organizations backing the strike and questioned their political motives.

"Congress, Left and other associated parties raising this issue should realize that the public has consistently rejected them. After holding power for around 70 years, what actions did they take? Now that the government is open for discussions, we should aim for a consensus beneficial to all," he stated.

Jaiswal also pointed out that the Centre recognized the necessity to broaden social security coverage and noted international acknowledgment of India's progress.

"During the G-20, the government recognized the need to enhance social security, and the ILO has remarked on the significant improvements in India's social security coverage. I came across a circular from Venugopal, General Secretary of the Congress Party, urging state leaders to join the strike. They are not part of the trade unions and have been rejected by the populace. One can also observe Rahul Gandhi disrupting Parliament over trivial matters," he remarked.

Questioning the timing of the demonstrations, Jaiswal accused the opposition of failing to contest labour reforms during their legislative development.

"When these laws were being drafted, why did Rahul Gandhi and the Left parties not appropriately oppose them in Parliament? They were absent during the formation of these laws. This is merely a political maneuver. Therefore, we have chosen to withdraw from this strike," he added.

He commended Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, asserting that the government has been attentive to the concerns expressed by trade unions.

"Mansukh Mandaviya has made considerable efforts to understand our requirements and has incorporated them into the new labour codes. With the availability of information, these parties, including Congress, cannot sway public opinion for their political gain," he continued.

NFITU General Secretary Virat Jaiswal also condemned the strike, describing it as "propaganda" with political aims.

He expressed support for the labour reforms initiated by the Centre, connecting them to the government's long-term developmental objectives.

"We express gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for implementing these labour codes. These codes will serve as a key to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. All workers will benefit from social security and EPF schemes. The government has indicated its willingness to engage in dialogue if any issues arise, so why should anyone strike? The parties advocating for this strike are merely seeking political benefits," he stated.

Virat Jaiswal further accused opposition parties of attempting to exploit workers for political gain.

"Whether it's Congress or any other political entity, they are trying to use workers as tools for their political fame. This is their propaganda. I am confident that this strike will not succeed," he concluded.