May 1 is not an ordinary day in the history of the global working class. It stands as a symbol of workers sweat, sacrifice, struggle and unity. It commemorates the spirit of the workers who laid down their lives on the streets of Chicago for the eight hour workday. May Day is a historic occasion that teaches us that workers rights are never granted as charity they must be won through struggle. It is not just a day of remembrance, but a day to renew our commitment to fight for the future of the working class.
Today, the central government’s anti-worker and anti-people policies, particularly the implementation of the labour codes, are posing a serious threat to workers’ rights. Though these codes are presented as a consolidation of decades-old labour laws under one umbrella, their real intention is to grant more freedom to employers while pushing workers into more insecure conditions. Hidden within these labour codes are provisions that extend working hours, fail to increase minimum wages, weaken union rights, impose restrictions on the right to strike and expand contract employment. These policies are not designed for workers welfare, but to serve corporate profits. Unorganized sector workers, outsourced employees, women workers and youth are especially vulnerable to the impact of these labour codes. Millions of workers who are already struggling with job insecurity, low wages and lack of social security face the danger of worsening living conditions. These so-called ‘reforms’ are, in reality, measures that weaken the working class.
May Day sends us a clear message: when the working class stands united, it can resist any attack. In the past, workers achieved rights such as minimum wages, regulated working hours, leave, provident fund (PF), and Employees State Insurance (ESI) through collective strength. Today, there is a need to build nationwide resistance against the labour codes with the same unity. In every factory, office and sector, workers must understand the true nature of these labour codes, spread awareness and prepare for collective struggle. Opposing the labour codes is not just about resisting a law it is about protecting the future of the working class. This struggle is necessary not only for today’s workers but also for future generations. If workers rights are weakened, democracy itself becomes fragile. A society that does not respect the dignity of labour cannot be just.
On this May Day, every worker must take a pledge: let us reject the labour codes, protect workers rights and move forward united for the liberation of the working class. Let the spirit of May Day awaken consciousness within us. Let it remind us that struggle is the path and unity is our greatest weapon.
