Nationwide Strike Disrupts Puducherry; Impacts Services, Schools Close

Puducherry experienced widespread disruptions on Wednesday as private buses, autos, and tempos ceased operations owing to a nationwide strike initiated by 10 trade unions. The strike aimed to protest against the central government's policies, including the newly implemented four labour codes. As a result, private schools opted to take a precautionary measure by declaring a holiday. Numerous businesses, including shops, vegetable vendors, and fish markets, chose to stay closed in solidarity with the strike. The unions raised demands such as the abolition of the four labour codes, the reversal of contractualisation and PSU privatisation, and an increase in the minimum wage to ₹26,000 per month. The strike also supported farmer organizations calling for a minimum support price based on the Swaminathan Commission's C2 plus 50 percent formula, as well as loan waivers for farmers. Government attendance was under scrutiny, with department heads tasked with providing detailed employee attendance records. Staff members, using two-wheelers, managed to reach their workplaces despite the strike. The territorial administration warned employees that absences without prior approval would face consequences under Conduct rules, and unauthorised absences would be viewed as a break in service. Major shopping areas appeared deserted, with shop owners adhering to the strike call by closing their establishments. Trade union leaders and members conducted roadblocks at various locations, leading to several arrests. Police forces were strategically deployed to maintain order at critical points. Despite the strike, government buses continued to operate in batches, ensuring that essential services like electricity and water supply remained unaffected. The absence of autos and tempos led to a reduced number of patient visits to hospitals, according to health department officials. Nonetheless, Swachh Bharath Abhiyan's sanitary workers continued their cleaning duties without interruption.

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