Union leaders across the country have intensified their demand for the rollback of the new labour codes, staging massive protests and coordinated demonstrations in multiple cities and industrial regions. The protests, organized by joint platforms of central trade unions along with allied workers’ and farmers’ groups, highlight growing concerns that the new framework weakens worker protections, reduces bargaining power, and favors corporate flexibility over employee security.
Protesters argue that the four consolidated labour codes introduced by the Government of India — covering wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety — were passed without adequate consultation with worker representatives. Union leaders claim the changes could make hiring and firing easier for large firms, complicate union registration, and dilute provisions related to minimum wages, social security benefits, and workplace safeguards.
Rallies, marches, and sit-ins were reported near major industrial hubs, public sector units, and administrative centers. Demonstrators carried placards and banners demanding restoration of stronger legal protections, universal minimum wage coverage, and guaranteed social security for unorganized sector workers. Several unions also called for wider public support, stating that the impact of the codes would extend beyond factory workers to contract staff and gig economy workers.
Government representatives have maintained that the labour codes aim to simplify compliance, modernize outdated laws, and improve the ease of doing business while still protecting workers’ rights. However, union groups insist that implementation should be paused and the laws reviewed through a broader consultative process. More protest actions are being planned if negotiations do not produce concrete assurances news as reported.
