Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 02 May 2024
The spirit of May Day resonated across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) spearheaded a series of events commemorating the international workers’ holiday. From Port Blair to the far-flung corners of the archipelago, workers joined in solidarity to mark the occasion with fervour and determination.
The focal point of the celebrations was Port Blair, where a vibrant May Day Rally commenced from the Delanipur junction, traversing through the significant landmarks of the town before culminating in a spirited public gathering at Tiranga Park. Hundreds of workers from various sectors actively participated, underscoring the unity and strength of the labor force. Notable leaders including R. Surendran Pillai, B. Chandrachoodan, D. Ayyappan, M. Boominathan, Anand Rajan, and M. Yugandar led the procession, joined by members of the Non-Gazetted Government Officers Association.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd at Tiranga Park, B. Chandrachoodan, General Secretary of the CITU State Committee, vehemently criticised the policies of the BJP-led central government, decrying them as anti-worker. He warned of dire consequences if the BJP were to retain power, expressing concerns over the erosion of labor rights and benefits.
D. Ayyappan, Vice President of CITU, invoked the historic origins of May Day, tracing it back to the seminal labor uprising at the Haymarket of Chicago in 1886. He condemned the attempts by the Modi government to extend working hours to up to 12 hours per day, lamenting the exploitation of workers and the sale of national assets to corporate conglomerates.
The gathering also heard from senior leader D. Laxman Rao, who emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in safeguarding workers’ rights. SP Kalairajan, Secretary of the CITU State Committee, extended gratitude to all participants.
Beyond Port Blair, similar fervour gripped other parts of the islands. In Campbell Bay, Katchal, and Hut Bay, enthusiastic rallies led by local CITU leaders underscored the widespread support for workers’ rights. Swarajdweep (Havelock) witnessed a massive meeting at the Havelock bazaar, featuring speeches by leaders Ranjan Samaddar and Suben Bachar.
Rangat, Betapur, Middle Andaman, Mayabunder, and Diglipur also saw spirited rallies and gatherings, with workers from diverse backgrounds coming together to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of solidarity and justice.
As the sun set on May Day 2024, the echoes of solidarity reverberated across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of the labor movement in the face of adversity.