Trade unions’ strike draws partial response in Haryana

The 24-hour nationwide strike called by various trade unions and employee organisations on Wednesday to protest against the Centre’s new labour codes and privatisation policies witnessed a partial impact across Haryana, with protests and disruptions reported in several districts.

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While union leaders claimed success, the strike only partially affected public transport and services in most parts of the state.

In Sirsa, the strike had a visible but limited impact, particularly in the transport and public utility sectors. Employees from departments like Haryana Roadways, electricity board, BDPO offices, tourism, sanitation, ITI, mid-day meal and education joined the protest.

Around 235 buses from Sirsa depot and another 135 from rural depots —including Ellenabad, Dabwali, Kalanwali, and Nathusari Chopta — were impacted. However, some buses continued to operate, resulting in only partial disruption.

In Panipat and Sonepat, essential services remained largely unaffected. Protesting employees gathered near the Mini Secretariat, where they submitted a memorandum to district officials.

In Karnal, employees under the banners of Sarav Karamchari Sangh and CITU staged a protest march from Fountain Park in Sector-12 to the Mini Secretariat. While the rally attracted attention, the strike did not cause any significant disruption to routine services.

Similar scenes were reported in Rohtak and Jhajjar, where employee groups assembled and marched to local administrative offices. In Rohtak, a section of Haryana Roadways employees also staged a demonstration at the bus stand, but services continued in many areas.

Despite the limited visible impact, union leaders insisted that the strike was a statewide success.

“Roadways buses remained off the roads on several routes,” claimed Sarbat Singh Punia, vice-president of the All India Road Transport Workers Federation.

Subhash Lamba, president of the All India State Government Employees Federation, said, “Several government employees from various departments joined the strike in large numbers.”