Trade unions announce twin rallies in Ranchi tomorrow against labour codes

A joint forum of major trade unions in Jharkhand has announced two rallies in Ranchi on Tuesday to press for their 17-point charter of demands, prominently including the repeal of the Centre’s four labour codes. The move is part of a larger national campaign being coordinated by trade unions across India.

Ashok Yadav, representing the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), stated that the rallies in Ranchi are a local expression of workers' growing discontent over recent labour reforms. "These codes dilute the rights of workers and favour corporates. We demand their immediate repeal," he said.

The trade unions have also confirmed that their Jharkhand units will actively participate in the nationwide agitation now rescheduled for July 9. Originally planned for May 20, the protest was postponed due to the sensitive situation in the country following the Pahalgam terror attack, said Yadav.

The charter of demands includes job security, a minimum wage hike, pension for unorganised workers, enforcement of labour rights, and halting the privatisation of public sector units. The unions argue that the four labour codes reduce protections for workers and weaken collective bargaining rights.

Thousands of workers from various sectors, including mining, construction, and transport, are expected to take part in Tuesday’s rallies. The demonstrations will highlight local grievances while aligning with national-level concerns.