Amalapuram – Andhra Pradesh: In a fervent demonstration against the Modi government’s economic policies, the CITU, Kaulu Rythu Agricultural Workers Unions organized a protest in Amalapuram on Friday. The rally, held at the Clock Tower center in Konaseema district, mobilized support for a renewed struggle against what they claim are anti-labour, anti-peasant, and pro-corporate policies that are exacerbating poverty and inequality in India.
Protest against Modi’s economic policies
The protest, led by leaders including CITU State Vice President Kaarem Venkateswara Rao, CITU District President, General Secretary G Durgaprasad, and N Balaram Kaulu Rythu Sangam District Secretary Peethala Ramachandra Rao, highlighted a range of grievances against the Modi government’s policies. Speakers at the event condemned the government’s pro-corporate stance, arguing that it has led to increased poverty, higher unemployment, and a rise in farmers’ suicides.
Demands for reform
The protesters issued a set of demands aimed at addressing the economic hardships faced by the people:
Abolish Anti-Labor Labor Codes: Call for the repeal of four labor codes deemed detrimental to workers’ rights.
Minimum Wage Increase: Demand for a minimum wage of Rs. 26,000 to ensure fair compensation for labourers.
Remunerative Price Law: Request for the implementation of a law to guarantee fair prices for farmers’ crops to prevent suicides.
Reduction in Essential Goods Prices: Urgent call to lower prices of essential goods and vegetables, and to include petrol and diesel under GST.
Employment Generation: Demand for the immediate filling of 18 lakh vacant positions in central and state government organizations.
Stop Privatization: Opposition to the privatization of public sector enterprises, including Visakha Steel, which are seen as crucial for employment.
Growing discontent
Protest leaders criticized the government for failing to control the rising costs of essentials and for its plans to sell public sector enterprises. They argued that these measures would only deepen economic inequality and undermine the welfare of the common people.
The rally, supported by leaders such as Appari Venkateswara Rao, Tadi Sriramurthi, Nimmakayala Venkatesh, V Mohana Rao, and others, reflects a broad discontent with the current administration’s economic strategies and its impact on the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
