On February 12, a coalition of farmer organizations and trade unions is calling for a nationwide shutdown in India to protest against several economic policies and labor laws enacted by the central government.
On February 12, the United Farmers Front (SKM), along with various central trade unions, has called for a nationwide shutdown (Bharat Bandh) in India to oppose the interim trade deal between India and the US, the government's economic policies, and new labor laws. The SKM has issued a statement detailing their grievances, which include demands for the repeal of the New Labor Codes, the Electricity Bill-2025, the Seed Bill-2025, and the cancellation of the 'Developed India Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission' (VB-G RAM G Act-2025). They are also advocating for the restoration of the old pension scheme and the implementation of minimum wages for workers and plan workers.
The SKM has emphasized that the platform of agricultural labor unions and the NREGA Struggle Front (NSM) will offer support and participation in protests across the country. In their statement, the SKM has made a broad appeal to the public to resist the new attacks on farmers, laborers, and the common people being perpetrated by the BJP government. They are encouraging widespread participation, indicating that the strike could involve millions of workers from both organized and unorganized sectors.
The planned strike highlights growing unrest among farmers and laborers regarding the government's policies perceived as detrimental to their livelihoods and rights. This event comes amid rising tensions and could signify a pivotal moment for labor movements in India, calling attention to issues of economic inequality and labor rights in the wake of the government’s controversial reforms.
