AGARTALA, September 2 (TIWN): More than hundreds of ruling CPI-M backed workers on Wednesday went for dawn to dusk general strike along with the entire nation to protest against changes in labour laws and privatisation of PSUs and others, affecting life in cities. The 24 hours strike goes on in state amidst the opposition congress and BJP’s boycott. They are not in part of the agitation.

The strike hit transport and banking operations in and around the state on Wednesday as long lines of commuters and schoolchildren could be seen at bus-stops early in the morning, while passengers were stranded at airports as taxis and rickshaws stayed off the streets. Though a special arrangements were made for the airway travellers.

Shops, markets and business establishments in most areas remained closed. The state administration was plying a large fleet of public buses while partial impact was seen on operations of private buses and taxis. Only a few private cars and two wheelers were seen on the roads. Shops, hotels and even small tea stalls were closed in the state.

Trade unions' 12-point charter of demands includes urgent measures to contain price rise, contain unemployment, strict enforcement of basic labour laws, universal social security cover for all workers and minimum wage of Rs 15,000 per month.

They are also demanding enhanced pension for workers, stoppage of disinvestment in PSUs, stoppage of contract system, removal of ceiling on bonus and provident fund, compulsory registration of trade unions within 45 days and stopping of FDI in railways and defence.