Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 October 2024
In line with global celebrations, the Andaman & Nicobar State Committee of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) observed “International Action Day” on October 3, 2024, commemorating the 79th Formation Day of the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU). The event featured a seminar in Sri Vijaya Puram, which saw a large turnout of workers despite inclement weather.
Every year, the WFTU marks October 3 as International Action Day, calling attention to the rights and demands of workers worldwide. This year’s theme focused on key issues, including a 35-hour work week without wage reduction, health and safety in the workplace, social security guarantees, and access to universal public healthcare and education. Additionally, the WFTU emphasised the need for a quality working and living environment for all workers.
At the seminar, B. Chandrachoodan, General Secretary of the CITU A & N State Committee, delivered a scathing critique of the central government’s policies, accusing it of undermining workers’ rights at the behest of corporate interests. “The passing of the four Labour Codes, which limit existing benefits and rights, is a clear indication of the BJP and Sangh Parivar’s loyalty to the corporate sector,” Chandrachoodan remarked. He highlighted the widespread movements by workers across India against what he described as anti-labour policies, indicating a growing discontent among the working class.
Echoing similar sentiments, D. Ayyappan, Vice President of the CITU State Committee, pointed out the plight of millions of workers in the unorganised sector who remain excluded from social security schemes. “In many parts of the world, workers are facing wage reductions and the curtailment of social security benefits. However, resistance is mounting, with the WFTU leading the charge against exploitative rulers,” Ayyappan said. He further criticised the Modi government, stating that while corporates prosper, the conditions of millions of workers have deteriorated.
The seminar also saw speeches from SP Kalairajan, Secretary of CITU, who discussed the importance of International Action Day, and BC Bhattacharjee, Vice President of the CITU State Committee, who presided over the event. CITU leaders M. Boominathan, Anand Rajan, and M. Yugander were also in attendance.
As workers in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands joined in this global observance, the seminar served as a platform for local CITU leaders to reaffirm their commitment to defending workers’ rights in the face of increasing challenges.