Workers in Tamil Nadu protest against new labor codes

Workers from the Unorganised Workers Federation (UWF) marched on Tuesday in Tamil Nadu. They are asking the State government to oppose four new labour codes from the Union government. They want the Assembly to pass a resolution to protect the welfare boards in Tamil Nadu. These labour codes were introduced nearly five years ago. They include changes to wages, workplace conditions, and social security. Activists say these codes weaken protections for workers and limit their ability to negotiate. Since March, the UWF has been organizing protests across the state. Their march started on March 16 in Chengalpattu and ended in Saidapet. R. Geetha, an advisor for the UWF, criticized the implementation of these codes without a proper meeting involving the workers, employers, and government. She highlighted that the Code on Social Security could lead to the dissolution of existing welfare boards in Tamil Nadu. Geetha also raised concerns about the lack of clear funding sources for the welfare schemes proposed for informal workers. The protesters called for the State government to provide health cards for all workers registered with welfare boards. These cards would ensure medical coverage and protection against work-related accidents. They are also unhappy with the current pension of ₹1200 and are demanding it be increased to at least ₹3000. Geetha noted that the costs of mobile phone service make it difficult for workers to register for these benefits.