Fri Jan 09 16:56:41 UTC 2026: # National Trade Unions Call for General Strike Over Labour Codes

The Story:
Ten Central Trade Unions (CTUs) convened a national convention in Delhi on Friday, January 9, 2026, announcing a nationwide general strike scheduled for February 12, 2026. This action is in protest against the Union government’s decision to implement the four Labour Codes. The unions have also threatened an indefinite strike if the government fails to withdraw the Codes immediately, citing concerns that they weaken trade unions and disadvantage the working class.

The unions further criticized the government’s privatization policies, alleged widespread vacancies in government services, and expressed solidarity with farmers’ organizations. They accused the government of prioritizing corporate interests, favoring foreign companies at the expense of domestic businesses, and neglecting essential services and the rising cost of living.

Key Points:

  • Ten Central Trade Unions (CTUs) announced a general strike on February 12, 2026.
  • The strike is in response to the Union government’s implementation of the four Labour Codes.
  • Unions are threatening an indefinite strike if the Codes are not withdrawn.
  • CTUs allege the Codes weaken trade unions and favor corporate interests.
  • The convention declaration criticized privatization, government job vacancies, and the rising cost of living.

Critical Analysis
The unions’ call for a general strike on February 12 comes as a culmination of the failure of five strikes that had been organized by CTUs between 2019 and 2020 when the four labor codes were passed in Parliament. While the unions point to government policies on privatization, job creation and foreign trade, the implementation of the labor codes seem to be the event that triggered this strike.

Key Takeaways:

  • The implementation of the Labour Codes remains a significant point of contention between trade unions and the government.
  • The unions are prepared to escalate their actions to include indefinite strikes if their demands are not met.
  • The CTUs frame their opposition within a broader narrative of economic deterioration, democratic erosion, and corporate favoritism.

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