Shimla, February 12: Trade unions and farmer organizations in Himachal Pradesh staged widespread protests on Thursday, following a nationwide strike called by 10 central trade unions, including CITU. Demonstrations were held across more than 50 locations, including all 12 district headquarters.

Vijendra Mehra, President of CITU Himachal Pradesh, stated that the strike, supported by various federations, was in protest of the government's implementation of the four controversial Labour Codes, notified on November 21, 2025. These laws have been criticized for weakening workers' rights, with claims that over 75% of workers would be excluded from labour protections. Mehra also voiced concerns over the increase in working hours, changes to wage timelines, and the potential reduction of the national minimum wage for unskilled workers in Himachal.

The protest also highlights dissatisfaction with the government's handling of workers' welfare, including the introduction of fixed-term employment, the Wage Code, and cuts to social security provisions. Mehra accused the Modi government of favoring corporate interests over workers and criticized the privatization of public sector units.

The strike, which also saw participation from medical, bank, and LIC employees, is expected to intensify, similar to the previous successful farmers' movement against the farm laws.