Agartala, February 11: The Tripura State branch of the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) will participate in the All India General Strike and Mass Movement scheduled for February 12, 2026. The nationwide strike has been called by the Joint Forum of Central Trade Unions and Independent Sectoral Federations to protest against what they describe as anti-worker, anti-farmer and pro-corporate policies of the Central Government.
In Tripura, workers from both rural and urban areas including those employed in government departments, public sector undertakings, tea gardens, the construction industry, transport services and the unorganised sector are expected to take part in the strike. Farmers, agricultural labourers, MGNREGS workers, youth and students have also extended support. The United Kisan Morcha and agricultural labour organisations have announced full solidarity with the movement.
The Joint Forum has strongly opposed the implementation of the four Labour Codes, alleging that they weaken collective bargaining, restrict the right to strike, dilute workplace safety norms and exclude a large section of workers from legal protection and social security coverage.
The strike also raises concerns over rising unemployment, the increase in contractual appointments in place of permanent jobs and the alleged non-filling of vacancies in state and central government departments. The forum has criticised the appointment of retired employees on a contractual basis despite existing job shortages.
Among other issues, the protesting organisations have objected to continued privatisation of public sector enterprises, including railways, banks, insurance, power, ports and telecom services. They have also opposed 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the insurance sector and certain proposed legislative measures such as the draft Seed Bill, the Electricity Amendment Bill, the SHANTI Act and the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025.
The forum has further demanded the strengthening of MGNREGA and opposed its proposed replacement by the ‘Vikshit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin)’ (VB-GRMG) 2025. It has also called for the regularisation of ASHA, Anganwadi and Mid-Day Meal workers, permanent appointments for NHM doctors and nurses, and the immediate filling of vacancies in government and state-owned sectors.
INTUC has appealed to workers, farmers, youth, women and democratic organisations across Tripura to ensure the success of the February 12 general strike.
