NEW DELHI: The nationwide strike called by trade unions on Wednesday had minimal impact across sectors, with the highest absenteeism observed in the banking industry, where around 33% of employees stayed away from work.
Data from 20 major cities, compiled by the Centre, revealed that key sectors such as railways, air transport (including airports), and power services operated normally, showing no noticeable disruption. This marks a shift from the past, when unions had greater influence in these areas.
There were some localised disruptions, particularly in cities like Kolkata, Asansol, and Chennai, where banks and insurance companies reported reduced attendance. After banking, the coal and mining sector and the oil and gas industry reported absenteeism of around 19%, followed by the insurance sector at 16%. However, the disruption was not significant enough to affect operations. Additionally, the widespread use of ATMs and digital banking services has made strikes in the banking sector less disruptive for the general public.
Overall, the turnout suggests a waning influence of trade unions. Over 200 unions across sectors such as defence, oil and gas, banking, and port services opted out of the strike.
The protest was organized in opposition to the Centre’s four new labour codes, which have yet to be implemented, pending state-level consultations. Union efforts to rally support have been undermined by several states moving ahead with amendments to their labour laws. These include changes like permitting night shifts for women and raising the retrenchment threshold—from 100 to 300 workers—without requiring government approval.
Most states, in a bid to attract investment, have shown willingness to provide employers with greater flexibility and reduce regulatory burdens. Only a few states have yet to respond to the Centre’s labour reforms, primarily for political reasons.
