Trade Unions' Strike Brings Total Shutdown in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: A 24- hour nationwide general strike called by trade unions in protest against the central government's labour policies, including the implementation of four new labour codes, brought life in Kerala to a standstill on Wednesday.

The strike, which began at midnight on Tuesday, saw strong support from trade unions and Left-leaning organisations across the state.

The protest was organised by the Joint Platform of Trade Unions, a coalition of 10 central trade unions (CTUs) along with several independent all-India sectoral federations and associations. The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) is the only major union that opted out of the strike.

Public transport, government offices, and a majority of private establishments remained closed, reflecting widespread participation. Streets across Kerala wore a deserted look, with buses off the roads and workers from various sectors staying away from duties in solidarity with the strike.

Shops, institutions, and most services remained shut, underscoring the total shutdown observed in the state.

However, essential services such as healthcare, emergency response, and milk supply were exempted from the strike to prevent public inconvenience.