Labourers near the Clock Tower area in the city observed a strike on Thursday in response to the All-India general strike call by central trade unions, protesting against the Union government’s new Labour Codes.
Hamali (head-load) workers attached to the Old Port wholesale market stopped work and assembled near the Clock Tower, expressing their opposition to the proposed implementation of the four Labour Codes, often referred to as Labour Code 2025.
Port market wears deserted look
The impact of the strike was immediately visible. The otherwise busy wholesale market remained largely inactive, with loading and unloading operations completely halted. Without labourers to move goods, traders found it impossible to conduct routine business.
Many shops and warehouses in the Old Port area did not open for the day. Public movement near the Clock Tower and surrounding commercial stretches was significantly reduced.
The Port Workers’ Association extended its support to the protest and had earlier convened meetings urging workers to participate in large numbers. Leaders emphasised that the strike was meant to safeguard workers’ rights and highlight concerns over changes to existing labour protections.
Workers assert their role
Participating labourers stated that no matter how large the commercial transactions, not a single sack in the wholesale market can be moved without their effort. The demonstration near the Clock Tower served as a symbolic reminder of the essential role played by daily wage workers in sustaining trade activity.
The protest remained peaceful but firm, underlining growing discontent among sections of the workforce over labour reforms.