9 July, 2025-In one of the largest coordinated labour strikes in the country’s history, an estimated 25 crore workers are expected to participate in a nationwide protest today against the central government’s labour policies. The strike, organized by ten central trade unions along with several sectoral federations, is set to disrupt key public services including banking, transport, health care, and administrative functions.
Trade unions allege that recent reforms introduced by the government, particularly the implementation of the four new labour codes, are heavily skewed in favour of corporations. According to union leaders, these changes have diluted workers’ rights, undermined job security, and restricted the right to protest and collective bargaining.
Union representatives claim the new laws ease regulations for employers by allowing fixed-term contracts, reducing safety provisions, and raising thresholds for factory registrations and layoffs. They also object to the growing trend of contractual employment, delays in minimum wage revisions, and increasing privatization of public sector units.
The protest is expected to see participation from employees across various sectors, including banking, transport, power, education, health care, and civic bodies. Public sector bank branches may remain closed, government offices could see low attendance, and state-run transport services are likely to be disrupted.
Health services are also expected to be hit, with nurses, sanitation workers, and support staff from government hospitals joining the strike. Several government schools and colleges have issued advance notices about possible closures due to staff participation.
While the government has urged unions to call off the strike, stating that the reforms are aimed at modernizing labour laws and creating employment opportunities, union leaders argue that the policies have been implemented without adequate consultation and have weakened safeguards for the working class.
The strike is also being supported by workers in the informal sector and gig economy in several metropolitan areas, reflecting widespread discontent with current labour conditions.
Public opinion remains divided. While many express solidarity with the workers’ demands for fair treatment and job security, others are concerned about the impact of service disruptions on daily life.
The strike marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between the government and labour organizations, with unions warning of further action if their demands are not addressed.
