Thiruvananthapuram: A sweeping 24-hour nationwide strike has brought large parts of India to a standstill, with Kerala witnessing near-total shutdown as millions of workers unite in protest against the Centre’s labour policies. The strike, called by a Joint Trade Union Committee, began at midnight and is expected to see participation from nearly 300 million workers across the country.
The agitation is spearheaded by major central trade unions including CITU, INTUC, and AITUC, along with several farmers’ organizations. Protesters are demanding the withdrawal of the new Labour Codes, strengthening of the MGNREGA rural employment scheme, and an immediate halt to the privatization of public sector enterprises. Union leaders describe the strike as a decisive warning against reforms they claim weaken workers’ rights and job security.
In Kerala, the impact is particularly visible. Public transport services — including KSRTC buses, private buses, taxis, and autorickshaws — have gone off the roads. Banking operations are facing significant disruptions, and most schools and colleges have declared a holiday in view of the strike. Streets across major cities wore a deserted look as normal life slowed dramatically.
However, essential services remain operational. Hospitals, milk distribution, newspaper delivery, and ambulance services are functioning without interruption. Kochi Metro and Water Metro services are continuing operations, while Sabarimala pilgrims and participants of the Maramon Convention have been exempted from the shutdown.
With protest marches and public meetings being held across the state, trade union leaders say the strike marks one of the largest collective actions by workers in recent times — sending a powerful message on labour rights and economic policies.
