Shimla, Apr 12
In a move, CITU released a workers’ manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, declaring a resolute stance against the Narendra Modi government’s alleged despotic regime.
The convention, inaugurated by CITU National Secretary Dr. Kashmir Singh Thakur, saw the unveiling of a demand charter aimed at addressing the grievances of workers across the nation. Dr. Thakur highlighted the ten-year tenure of the Modi government, condemning the repeal of 44 labor laws meant for safeguarding workers’ rights. He asserted that these actions were undertaken to boost capitalist profits at the expense of the working class.
Citing unfulfilled promises of job creation and the privatization of public sectors, Dr. Thakur accused the government of betraying the trust of the people. He pointed out the exploitation of youth under the guise of employment schemes, denouncing what he described as dictatorial measures to stifle dissent.
State General Secretary Prem Gautam echoed these sentiments, criticizing the government’s failure to increase salaries for MNREGA, Child Development Scheme, Mid Day Meal, and Asha workers. He highlighted the government’s disregard for a 2013 decision to declare these workers as government employees, instead hinting at plans to privatize these essential services.
Moreover, Gautam pointed to the government’s neglect of raising the minimum wage, coupled with budget cuts, as evidence of its anti-labor stance. He emphasized the urgent need to oust the Modi government, labeling its policies as detrimental to both workers and farmers.
Bhupendra Singh outlined the upcoming campaign strategy, announcing block committee meetings of all unions by April 30. From May 1, Labor Day, a public campaign will be launched in villages, featuring pamphlet distributions and meetings. The campaign will culminate on May 30, coinciding with CITU’s foundation day, with events planned in Mandi, Joginder Nagar, Sarkaghat, and Balichowki.
The convention, attended by 150 representatives from various unions including Anganwadi, Mid Day Meal, MNREGA, Construction, and others, concluded with a united resolve. General Secretary Rajesh Sharma, along with other committee members, expressed solidarity in their mission to raise awareness about the Modi government’s alleged injustices.
In a resounding declaration, CITU pledged to educate workers and the public about the government’s actions over the past decade. With a firm commitment to protect workers’ rights, CITU stands poised to mobilize a formidable opposition against what they perceive as anti-labor policies, setting the stage for a contentious lead-up to the upcoming elections.
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