Recent violence following discontent and strikes in Noida, near Delhi, has prompted many experienced commentators to express serious concern about the increasing difficulties faced by workers in India. In a statement released on April 22, the Delhi Union of Journalists (DUJ) expressed concern over the worsening conditions of workers in Noida, as well as the severe police action against them, in which some journalists were also injured.
The DUJ stated that about 45,000 workers had been on strike for several days. Their demands—such as a minimum wage of ₹20,000 per month, four holidays per month, overtime payment in accordance with legal norms, and improved working conditions—appear justified, particularly in the context of the sharp rise in the cost of living in recent times.
The steep increase in the price of cooking gas in the wake of the West Asian war—especially the higher prices many workers reportedly pay in informal markets—has placed significant strain on already fragile household economies. However, even over a longer period, workers have been under growing pressure due to rising living costs. Real wages have remained stagnant or, in some cases, declined. The more recent increases in the cost of fuel and other essentials have disproportionately affected the working class, which was already in a financially precarious position and unable to absorb further shocks.
In recent interactions with workers through group discussions, a consistent pattern of distress has emerged. Many workers report being unable to meet basic needs on monthly incomes ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000. Households often depend on multiple earners to make ends meet. For instance, a worker’s spouse may contribute ₹8,000–₹10,000 per month through domestic work, or a young family member may leave education to supplement the family income. Even with government support schemes, such as the provision of 5 kg of food grains per person per month, many families struggle to maintain adequate nutrition and healthcare. Expenses related to social obligations, such as weddings, or emergencies like prolonged illness, frequently push households into debt.
While this reflects a widespread situation, conditions may be relatively better in certain industrial units or specific categories of employment. However, for many workers, especially those who have been displaced to distant areas due to slum demolitions, commuting costs and travel time further exacerbate their difficulties.
Denial of proper wages and essential facilities—many of which are legally mandated—has also been linked to the widespread use of the contractor system. This system has long been criticized for enabling principal employers to circumvent their legal obligations related to worker welfare and protection.
The recently introduced labour codes have been presented by the government as reforms, but workers’ representatives have expressed concerns about several provisions, including the perceived weakening of trade unions and the possibility of extended working hours of up to 12 hours a day. In physically demanding and often hazardous working environments, longer working hours raise serious concerns regarding workers’ health and well-being, even if weekly limits are formally maintained.
In sectors where protective legislation had earlier ensured certain safeguards, workers and their organizations have expressed apprehension about potential adverse impacts of the new codes. They emphasize that hard-won gains achieved through prolonged struggles should not be diluted.
Although the government has reiterated its commitment to improving occupational safety, frequent reports of serious workplace accidents suggest that conditions may not be improving. Broader aspects of occupational health—including sanitation, regular health check-ups, and access to medical care—require substantial attention.
A comprehensive understanding of workers’ conditions must also take into account their social responsibilities. Many workers migrate to cities with the expectation of saving money to support families in rural areas. This obligation adds another layer of financial pressure.
In this context, rather than focusing solely on punitive action against protesting workers, there is a need for policy measures that provide immediate relief while also strengthening long-term protections and welfare mechanisms for the workforce.
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The writer is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Protecting Earth for Children, Planet in Peril, Man over Machine, and When the Two Streams Met
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