Why is TN CPI(M) Calling for Mass Participation in the July 9 Strike Against the Centre's Anti-Labour Policies?

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Why is TN CPI(M) Calling for Mass Participation in the July 9 Strike Against the Centre's Anti-Labour Policies?

Synopsis

In a powerful call to action, CPI(M) Tamil Nadu state secretary P. Shanmugam urges the citizens of Tamil Nadu to join the July 9 nationwide strike. This movement opposes the BJP-led government's labor reforms, aiming to reclaim workers' rights and uphold democratic values. Join the collective resistance for a brighter future!

Key Takeaways

  • Mass participation is crucial for the success of the strike.
  • Reform rollback is a primary demand to protect workers' rights.
  • Unity among workers is essential for a strong message to the government.
  • Democratic values are at stake, emphasizing the significance of this collective action.
  • Public support can amplify the impact of the strike.

Chennai, July 8 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu state secretary of CPI(M), P. Shanmugam, has urged both workers and the general populace throughout Tamil Nadu to engage actively in the nationwide general strike set for July 9.

This strike has been convened collaboratively by central trade unions and sectoral federations to protest against a variety of policies instituted by the BJP-led government. In a vehement statement, Shanmugam emphasized that the central strike seeks to compel the government to retract what he terms as “anti-worker” labour reforms.

Foremost among the demands is the immediate annulment of the four labour codes enacted by the government during its administration. “These codes jeopardize the rights and safeguards of workers and were introduced without significant consultation with trade unions,” he asserted.

The strike further demands the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme, the enforcement of minimum wages for all worker categories, and the abolition of policies that facilitate the privatization of the power sector.

Shanmugam specifically lambasted the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, alleging it is crafted to transfer control of the power sector to private corporations, which would ultimately disadvantage both workers and consumers.

Additional critical demands include guaranteeing 1.5 times the production cost for agricultural products, safeguarding public sector enterprises from disinvestment, augmenting budget allocations for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), and implementing robust measures to control the escalating prices of essential goods.

Shanmugam remarked that while protests specific to sectors have been occurring nationwide, the July 9 strike embodies a collective initiative by the entire working class to resist the government’s policy framework.

“This united resistance is not solely about defending the rights of workers and trade unions; it also encompasses the protection of democratic principles and the opposition to corporate-led governance,” he stated.

He called upon party members, trade unions, farmers’ organizations, and the broader public to come out in droves to ensure the strike’s triumph. “A powerful message of solidarity and resistance must be conveyed to the Centre,” he concluded.

Point of View

It is imperative to recognize the significance of the upcoming strike called by CPI(M) in Tamil Nadu. This initiative is not merely a labor protest but a critical moment for citizens to express their discontent with governmental policies that affect their livelihoods and democratic rights.
NationPress
20/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the July 9 strike?
The strike aims to protest against the anti-labour policies introduced by the BJP-led Centre, including demands for the withdrawal of four controversial labour codes.
Who is leading the call for the strike?
The strike is being led by CPI(M) Tamil Nadu state secretary P. Shanmugam, along with central trade unions and federations.
What are the key demands of the protesters?
Key demands include the repeal of the four labour codes, restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, implementation of minimum wages, and halting the privatization of the power sector.
Why is the strike significant?
The strike represents a united effort by the working class to resist policies perceived as detrimental to workers' rights and to uphold democratic values.
How can people participate in the strike?
People are encouraged to join the protests on July 9 and show solidarity with workers across the nation.