Overview
- The Labour Codes, which merge many older labour laws into four, took effect Wednesday as unions marked a nationwide Black Day.
- Central trade unions and allied farm groups called the laws anti-worker and demanded an immediate rollback.
- Local actions included a black-flag march in Khammam and black badges at GVMC offices in Visakhapatnam.
- Leaders warned of sustained agitations if the Centre does not reverse course, citing a February 12 strike they claim drew over 30 crore workers.
- The government presents the overhaul as simplification to ease doing business, while groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha allege it weakens job security, the eight-hour day, collective rights, and reservation safeguards.