JD-U condemns Centre's anti-worker initiatives: Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) President Nitish Kumar on Friday said his party strongly condemns the anti-labour measures initiated by the BJP-led central government.

The JD-U also pledged support to nationwide demonstrations and rallies of workers on August 9, and also to the nationwide strike on September 2.

"Ever since the National Democratic Alliance has come to power at the Centre, the process of amending the labour laws has gained pace. The government has initiated one-sided amendments to the pro-labour provisions in the law," Nitish Kumar said in a press statement.

"With the new laws, amendments and reforms being introduced by the government, around 60 per cent of the 48 crore workers would be reduced to bonded labourers without any right to form unions or define working hours, etc.," he said.

Citing examples, Niish Kumar said now female workers can also be called for night shifts and the maximum overtime limit over three months has been increased to 125 hours from the earlier 50 hours, which would burden the workers.

--IANS

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