TUCC rejects February 12 general strike call 

The Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC) on Wednesday rejected a call for a nationwide general strike on February 12 proposed by certain trade unions, calling it “completely baseless, impractical, and against national interest.” TUCC said it would not participate, asserting that such actions are driven by “political agendas and narrow interests” rather than genuine worker welfare.

In a statement, TUCC said strike calls rooted in political motives weaken the tradition of “dialogue and negotiation,” essential for protecting and advancing workers’ rights. The union added that disruptive actions at a time of “economic stability, industrial growth, and employment generation” hinder development and adversely affect both workers and industry.

TUCC described demands for the withdrawal of the four Labour Codes and continuation of old labour laws as “misleading and regressive,” noting that most long-standing demands of Central Trade Unions have been incorporated into the new codes, which aim to simplify laws, improve transparency, ensure better compliance, and expand social security coverage.

The union also dismissed objections to amendments related to MGNREGA, the launch of the “Viksit Bharat Gram Yojana,” and increased state financial contributions, calling them “misleading and unfounded.” TUCC said these reforms are intended to strengthen rural infrastructure and create “long-term employment opportunities.”

TUCC criticised opposition to policy initiatives such as strategic disinvestment, free trade agreements, and sectoral reforms as reflecting a “narrow and outdated approach to economic development.” The union reaffirmed its commitment to “nationalism, constructive engagement, and responsible trade unionism,” stating it supports progressive policies and will safeguard workers’ interests through dialogue rather than “disruptive and politically motivated strikes.”