Protest in Visakhapatnam against central government’s anti-labour policies

Protesters in Vizag demand fair wages and worker rights against anti-labour policies during a major strike on February 12, 2026.

As part of the All-India Strike called by central trade unions, a massive protest march was organised on Thursday (February 12, 2026) under the leadership of CPI and AITUC.

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The rally commenced from the Ambedkar Statue at the GVMC Zonal Office and proceeded to the Market Centre, as well as other zonal areas, including Madhurawada, to protest against the four labour codes, the reduction in MGNREGS funds, and the Electricity Amendment Bill 2025.

​Speaking on the occasion, one of the leaders, M. Paidiraju (CPI State council member and AITUC leader), criticised the centre’s policies.

The protesters presented certain demands, including regularisation of all contracts, outsourcing, and unorganised sector workers. Workers should be paid a minimum wage of ₹26,000 along with ESI, PF, and Gratuity benefits, they added.

The leaders further demanded that the contract system must be abolished, and the government should pay salaries directly to the workers.