Protest erupts in Amalapuram against extension of working hours

Amalapuram – Andhra Pradesh: The CITU, Agricultural Workers Union, along with farmers and allied associations, staged a protest at the Amalapuram Clock Center on Tuesday, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the state government’s decision to increase the working hours of labourers from eight to thirteen hours.

Workers condemn government decision

Addressing the gathering, State Vice President Kaarem Venkateswara Rao, CITU District President G Durga Prasad, Retired Teachers Union leader M Venkateswara Rao, Tenant Farmers Union District Secretary Peethala Ramachandra Rao, and Dalit leader Gidla Venkateswara Rao said the decision reverses decades of workers’ struggles that had secured the eight-hour workday. They alleged the move was made under pressure from the central government to benefit corporate companies.

Concerns over women’s safety

The leaders expressed concern that the decision could lead to night shifts for women workers, exposing them to increased risks amid rising incidents of violence against women. They called it a form of exploitation that disregards workers’ rights and safety.

Call for immediate withdrawal

The unions and associations warned that if the assembly resolution is not withdrawn immediately, they would intensify their agitation across the state.

Broad support for the protest

The demonstration received support from the Retired Teachers Union, Mala Mahanadu, Civil Rights Association, and KVPS. Leaders including T Naga Varalakshmi, B Satish, Nagababu, Ch. Babji, G Daiva Krupa, Vijaya, Parvathi, Ratnakumari, Bunga Satyanarayana, Thadi Srirammurthy, Shettibattula Tulasi Rao, Amaladasu Baburao, Rambabu, and Jalli Srinu participated in the protest.