Worker unions stage protest on Marx’s birth anniversary

On the birth anniversary of renowned philosopher Karl Marx, who envisioned a society free from exploitation, activists of the NREGA Workers Union and Dehati Mazdoor Sabha staged a day-long dharna in front of the District Administration Complex (DAC) on Monday. The protest highlighted the demands of the weaker sections of society. Activists from various parts of the district participated in the demonstration.

Meena Kaur Sarpanch from Cheema Khurad Shukarchak and Jasbir Singh from Verowal presided over the protest. State-level leaders of the Mazdoor Unions, including Gurnam Singh Daod, Chamal Lal Darajke and Baldev Singh Pandori, were among those who addressed the gathering.

The leaders strongly condemned both the Union and state governments for implementing policies that favour and protect corporate interests, thereby paving the way for the exploitation of the labour class. They said that these flawed policies are contributing to the growing economic imbalance in the country. The speakers added that the living standards of the working class are steadily deteriorating due to government decisions at both the state and national levels.

The protestors also expressed their resentment over the privatisation of public sector services, which they said is increasingly depriving marginalised communities of access to essential services like education, healthcare and civic amenities that are necessary for a dignified life.

The speakers emphasised the current demands of NREGA workers, calling for guaranteed employment and an increase in their daily wages.