BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th November 2025: As religious polarization sweeps across the country, the central government has quietly implemented a new labour code, drawing sharp criticism from workers’ organizations.
Speaking to journalists, CITU leader and former minister Manik De alleged that the new legislation undermines workers’ rights while the public remains distracted by other issues.
According to the official notification, the new labour code introduces several significant changes to India’s labour law framework.
Manik De highlighted that, under the new code, employers no longer need government permission to shut down factories or lay off large numbers of employees. Workers’ groups warn that this could make layoffs easier and heighten job insecurity.
The code also requires workers to give 14 days’ notice before going on strike. Any immediate strike in response to injustice or accidents will now be considered illegal.
“Even collective leave by workers could be treated as an “illegal strike,” punishable under the law. Labour organizations say this directly curtails workers’ right to protest. Furthermore, the new legislation allows up to 12 hours of work per day, a significant increase from the previous 8-hour workday. Workers’ representatives argue that this could put undue pressure on employees and make workplaces more exploitative”, he said.
He said that regarding female workers, the code permits them to work between 10 PM and 6 AM, with the government claiming safety measures will be in place. Social workers and unions, however, point out that if women’s safety cannot be guaranteed during daylight hours, assurances about night work are largely symbolic.
Manik De stated that the new labour code effectively prioritizes corporate interests over workers’ welfare, describing it as a step toward turning India’s labour force into “modern-day slaves.” He accused the central government of acting against the interests of working people.
Since the code came into force, various trade unions, human rights organizations, and labour groups have called for nationwide protests. Manik De emphasized the need to build widespread resistance against what he termed a “pro-corporate and anti-worker” decision.
