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Left, workers’ unions and farmers’ organisations on Thursday observed a nationwide `Bharat Bandh` on Thursday in protest against the Central Government’s new Labour Codes and the India-US trade deal.

In Vasai, members of the Marxist-Leninist Party of India (Lal Bavta) staged a protest outside the Vasai Tehsil office, an official statement said.

Around 60 to 70 protesters took part in the demonstration.

The protest was organised against the four new labour codes introduced by the government, which replaced 29 existing labour laws last year.

Trade unions have strongly criticised the new labour codes. They claim the changes weaken workers’ rights and reduce social and economic security. Protesters alleged that the new laws favour privatisation and dilute protections previously available to workers.

Farmers’ organisations have also extended their support to the strike.

Concerns Over India-US interim trade pact

Protesters also raised concerns over the interim trade agreement between India and the United States. Farmers’ groups fear that cheaper agricultural products from the US may enter Indian markets, which could affect the income of local farmers.

Demonstrators said the agreement could negatively impact the agricultural sector and rural livelihoods.

Memorandum submitted to authorities

During the protest in Vasai, representatives submitted a memorandum to the Tehsildar outlining their demands.

Sheru Wagh, District Joint Secretary of the Lal Bavta Party, said that trade unions, employee associations and nearly 500 farmers’ organisations across the country participated in the strike. He expressed hope that the government would reconsider the policies in response to the widespread opposition.

Opposition MPs Protest India-US Interim Trade Deal in Parliament

Opposition stages demonstration

Meanwhile, the Opposition Members of Parliament on Thursday staged a protest at Makar Dwar in Parliament against the India-US interim trade agreement.

Holding placards, several opposition MPs described the agreement as a “trap deal” and criticised the government for entering into it. The protest also expressed support for the nationwide strike, or Bharat Bandh, called by trade unions against various central government policies.

Workers and farmers across the country participated in the strike, raising concerns over the new labour codes, privatisation measures and trade agreements. Trade unions and farmer groups have argued that these policies are harmful to workers’ rights and agricultural interests.

The protest in Parliament comes amid continuing tensions between the government and the opposition during the ongoing Budget Session.