LabourStrike – AAP Extends Support to Nationwide Bharat Bandh Call
LabourStrike – The Aam Aadmi Party has declared its backing for the Bharat Bandh scheduled for Thursday, responding to a joint call issued by ten central trade unions along with several farmer organisations.
The party urged workers, farmers, traders, shopkeepers and citizens in Punjab and other parts of the country to participate peacefully in the shutdown. According to AAP leaders, the call for the bandh is rooted in concerns over labour rights and agrarian distress rather than partisan politics.
Party Frames Bandh as Wider Social Movement
In a statement, the Aam Aadmi Party described the protest as a collective assertion of dignity and justice for millions of working people. The leadership maintained that the issues raised go beyond political affiliations and reflect broader anxieties among labourers and farmers.
Party representatives said their cadres across Punjab and other states would stand alongside unions and agricultural groups during the protest. They characterised the bandh as a movement seeking fairness and accountability in economic and labour-related policies.
Concerns Over New Labour Codes
AAP spokespersons criticised the BJP-led Central government over the implementation of the new labour codes. They argued that the changes have altered existing protections for workers, raising questions about job security and legal safeguards.
According to the party, the revised framework has provided employers greater flexibility in hiring and retrenchment. AAP leaders contend that this shift may weaken workers’ bargaining power and reduce the sense of security traditionally associated with organised employment. They described the development as a significant concern for millions of employees across multiple sectors.
The BJP-led Union government has defended the labour reforms in the past as measures intended to simplify compliance and improve the ease of doing business. However, trade unions have consistently expressed reservations, saying the changes may disadvantage workers.
Farmer Organisations Join the Call
The support extended by farmer groups has added another dimension to the planned Bharat Bandh. AAP leaders said the participation of agricultural organisations highlights the depth of dissatisfaction over economic policies affecting the farming community.
They pointed to ongoing debates around crop pricing and procurement systems, stating that farmers continue to seek stable returns and policy assurances. The party claimed that the concerns of labourers and farmers are closely linked, particularly in states like Punjab where agriculture plays a central role in the economy.
Punjab Government’s Record Cited
Highlighting its governance record in Punjab, AAP leaders said the state government has taken steps to raise minimum wages and ensure timely procurement of wheat and paddy. They also referred to welfare measures such as free electricity, healthcare facilities and expanded access to education.
According to the party, these initiatives demonstrate its commitment to workers and farmers. Leaders said their administration’s approach reflects an effort to address economic pressures through policy decisions at the state level.
Criticism of Corporate Influence Allegations
In its statement, the party accused the Central government of prioritising corporate interests over labour rights. It alleged that policy changes have created conditions that favour large businesses while leaving workers vulnerable.
AAP leaders argued that this perception has prompted trade unions and farmer bodies to unite for a coordinated protest. They said the Bharat Bandh represents an appeal for balanced economic reforms that safeguard employment protections and ensure fair treatment for agricultural producers.
As the scheduled date approaches, authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely. Organisers have called for peaceful participation, and political observers will be watching to assess the scale and impact of the nationwide shutdown.