Trade unions to join general strike on July 9, plan picketing at eight spots
Buses and autos will not operate on the day. The trade unions have urged the government to declare a holiday for schools and colleges on the day of the general strike to avoid inconvenience to students.
Addressing a press conference K. Sethuselvam, AITUC general secretary and other leaders, said mass demonstrations and picketing would be held at various places, including the New Bus Stand, Sedarapet, Madagadipat, Thirukkanur, Villianur, Ariyankuppam, Bahour and Karaikal.
Cinemas, markets and shops would remain closed on July 9. Factories and government-affiliated companies have been duly given strike notices, Mr. Sethuselvam said.
G. Seenu Vasan, CITU Secretary, P. Gnanasekaran, INTUC General Secretary, S. Purushothaman, AICCTU General Secretary and others participated.
The alliance of trade unions is also pressing for a 21-point charter of demands that include implementing the national minimum wage of ₹26,000, a rollback of privatisation of State assets, reining in inflation and abolition of GST on essential items, such as food, medicines and agri inputs.
They also demand reduction of central excise duty on petroleum products and LPG, ensuring food security, expanding the Public Distribution System and restoration of the old pension scheme.
The demands at the State-level include the immediate release of pay arrears of workers and employees working in public sector and government-owned enterprises and cooperatives, pay equalisation for contract workers and withdrawal of amendments to the Electricity Act and the revival of shuttered cooperatives. Another important issue pertains to the earmarking of funds to operationalise the Welfare Board for unorganised workers.
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