CITU workers stage protest in Chamba

Hundreds of workers, including ASHA workers, mid-day meal staff, mill labourers and health workers rallied in Chamba on Tuesday under the banner of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU). Marking Constitution Day, the protesters gathered outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, raising slogans against the central government and demanding action on a 12-point charter.

Sudesh Thakur, CITU’s district secretary, criticised the Narendra Modi-led government for policies favoring corporations at the expense of workers and farmers. She accused the government of rolling back beneficial schemes, enacting anti-labour laws, and exacerbating inflation. “The livelihoods of the poor are being undermined,” she said, citing rising debts and waived corporate loans.

Key demands included higher minimum wages, employment security, legal enforcement of minimum support prices (MSP) for crops, the repeal of labour codes, and stronger protection for contract and scheme workers. Workers also protested against the privatisation of public sectors and reduced agricultural subsidies, which they argue disproportionately harm the poor. A delegation submitted a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu through the district administration, reiterating their demands. Protesters emphasized the vital role of labor and agriculture in nation-building and vowed to continue their struggle until the government addressed their concerns.

The rally symbolised growing discontent among India’s working classes, with participants calling for equitable policies to protect their livelihoods.