Normal life remains unaffected in Karnataka as part of nationwide strike

Bengaluru: Normal life remained largely unaffected in Karnataka on Wednesday though protests were held in various places in the wake of a nationwide strike called by trade unions to oppose the Central government's alleged "anti-labour" policies.

Buses of Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) were seen plying on the roads as usual. Autos and cab facilities were also available for commuters.

Schools and colleges remained open as the Karnataka government has not declared a holiday for educational institutions.

Meanwhile, members of various labour organisations staged a protest at Freedom Park. The protesters demanded that the amendment to the labour laws should be withdrawn, anti-labour policies and the proposal to increase the working hours of employees be junked.

In Hubballi, members of various trade unions under the Joint Committee of Trade Unions took out a match opposing the alleged anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the government.

Similarly, a rally was organised in Mysuru by AITUC (All India Trade Union Congress) and other organisations. In Bidar too, workers, including women, took to the streets.

The 24-hour strike has been called by the Joint Platform of Trade Unions, which comprises 10 central trade unions (CTUs) along with independent all-India sectoral federations and associations.