Online Desk: In support of the nationwide general strike scheduled for February 12, Left parties in the state took to the streets, organizing a protest rally and public meeting in the capital. The strike has been called by ten central trade unions demanding the repeal of the newly introduced four labour codes.
The rally began at Mela Maidan and moved through key city routes before culminating in a gathering at Shakuntala Road. Leaders and supporters of CITU participated in large numbers. Addressing the assembly, former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, seated alongside CITU General Secretary Shankar Dutta and President Manik Dey, launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led governments at both the Centre and in the state.
Sarkar alleged that both governments are pursuing anti-people and anti-worker policies, accusing them of favouring corporate interests. He claimed that the four new labour codes were introduced to benefit big business at the cost of workers’ rights. According to him, the global norm of eight hours of work, eight hours of leisure, and eight hours of rest is being undermined, as the new labour framework may compel workers to work 12 to 14 hours a day without proportional overtime compensation.
He further criticized the BJP for allegedly forming the government at the Centre with support from regional leaders despite lacking an outright majority, and accused it of implementing policies that harm workers, farmers, unemployed youth, small traders, teachers, and government employees in Tripura.
Sarkar also alleged that the state government is attempting to suppress the strike by issuing warnings to keep shops open, compelling transport workers to operate services, and pressuring teachers and government employees to attend offices. He claimed this indicates a lack of genuine public support for the BJP in the state.
Concluding his address, Sarkar stated that the growing participation in Left-led rallies reflects rising public dissatisfaction and signals the eventual defeat of the BJP. He also accused the party of attempting to divert attention by raising communal issues instead of addressing economic and labour concerns.
