RSS-backed BMS refuses to join Feb 12 general strike called by trade unions, says agitation ‘politically motivated’

New Delhi: The RSS-backed Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) on Saturday said it will not participate in the generalsStrike on February 12 called by Opposition-backed Central Trade Unions and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha with "political motives".

In a statement, BMS General Secretary Ravindra Himte said they "consistently supports constructive and pro-labour initiatives" of the government while "firmly opposing and raising objections" to policies that may adversely affect workers.

"BMS does not participate in politically motivated agitations, as political interests must be kept away from the labour sector. Accordingly, BMS will neither support nor participate in any strike on February 12," he said.

Himte said the BMS has consistently stated its position that it welcomes the four Labour Codes, subject to the concerns it has raised regarding two of them.

"BMS has clearly articulated that the Code on Wages and the Code on Social Security are historic and revolutionary, while its concerns relate to certain provisions in the remaining two Codes. These issues were raised in detail during meetings with the union Labour minister held on November 13 and 21 last year, during which the Minister assured BMS that the government would address the concerns raised by BMS appropriately," he said.

"In addition, BMS has placed several other demands before the government on various labour-related issues. The Labour Minister has assured that these matters will also be duly considered and addressed. In view of these assurances, BMS has welcomed the notifications issued for the implementation of the Labour Codes," Himte added.