Workers, Farmers Protest Across India; Banks, Transport Services Hit

Workers, Farmers Protest Across India; Banks, Transport Services Hit

New Delhi: Large-scale protests erupted across India today as workers’ unions and farmers’ organizations joined hands in a nationwide strike, disrupting banking operations, public transport, and several essential services in multiple states.

The coordinated action, called by a coalition of central trade unions and farmer groups, was aimed at pressing the government to address a range of long-standing demands. Protesters raised concerns over rising unemployment, price inflation, labor law reforms, privatization of public sector units, and demands for a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

Widespread Disruptions

Banking services were among the worst affected, with several public sector bank branches remaining closed or operating with limited staff. Cheque clearances, cash transactions, and other routine banking operations were delayed in many cities.

Public transport services also experienced significant disruptions. State-run bus services in parts of Kerala, Punjab, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu were either suspended or operated on reduced schedules due to employee participation in the strike. In some regions, taxi and auto-rickshaw unions extended support, leading to commuter inconvenience during peak hours.

While railway services largely continued, protesters staged demonstrations near tracks and railway stations in certain areas, briefly affecting local train schedules.

Key Demands

Trade unions criticized recent labor codes, claiming they weaken workers’ rights, dilute collective bargaining powers, and make hiring and firing easier for employers. They also demanded measures to curb price rise, increase minimum wages, create more government jobs, and strengthen social security schemes.

Farmers’ groups, meanwhile, reiterated their demand for a legally guaranteed MSP for all crops, loan waivers, pension benefits, and compensation for crop losses. Leaders stated that assurances given during previous negotiations have not been fully implemented.

Government Response

Government representatives described the strike as unnecessary, asserting that reforms are aimed at improving ease of doing business and boosting economic growth. Officials emphasized that essential services were being maintained and that state administrations were prepared to handle disruptions.

In several cities, security personnel were deployed to prevent untoward incidents. Though most protests remained peaceful, minor clashes were reported in isolated areas.

Political Reactions

Opposition parties expressed support for the protesters, accusing the government of ignoring the concerns of workers and farmers. They called for dialogue and immediate action to address grievances.

As the nationwide agitation unfolds, its broader economic impact remains to be seen. Analysts suggest that while short-term disruptions are significant, the protests highlight deeper structural issues in employment, agriculture, and social welfare that may require sustained policy engagement.

The strike underscores growing discontent among sections of India’s workforce and farming community, signaling that negotiations between stakeholders and the government will be crucial in the days ahead.