Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, July 9: Members of several trade unions staged demonstrations across Karnataka on Wednesday as part of a 24-hour nationwide strike to oppose the central government’s alleged anti-labour policies. However, daily life remained largely unaffected, with public transport, schools, and offices functioning as usual.

In Bengaluru, BMTC and KSRTC buses operated on schedule, and autos and cab services continued uninterrupted, ensuring smooth commuting for the public. The Karnataka government did not declare a holiday for schools and colleges, which remained open.

Despite the limited disruption to civic life, protest activities were visible in many parts of the state. In the capital, members of various labour unions gathered at Freedom Park, voicing strong opposition to the proposed amendments to labour laws, the extension of working hours, and what they alleged were anti-worker, pro-corporate policies of the Union government.

Elsewhere in the state, protests took a similar tone. In Hubballi, members of trade unions affiliated with the Joint Committee of Trade Unions organised a march opposing the central government’s policies, which they described as anti-worker, anti-farmer, and anti-national.

In Mysuru, the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) joined hands with other labour organisations to carry out a protest rally. Women workers in Bidar also participated actively, adding strength to the state-wide mobilisation.

The 24-hour general strike was called by the Joint Platform of Trade Unions, which includes 10 central trade unions (CTUs) and several sectoral federations and associations. The unions allege that the Centre’s new labour codes will erode worker rights, reduce social security, and favour corporates over the working class.

While the protests were significant in visibility, the impact on essential services and daily operations in Karnataka was minimal, with authorities reporting no major incidents or disruptions.