July 28, 2025

The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) district committee has announced plans to heighten agitation efforts for various worker demands, prominently from Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), along with scheme workers, the enforcement of minimum wages, and the revival of the old pension scheme. The resolution arose from a two-day district conference that concluded on July 27 in which union delegates reflected on activities undertaken over the past three years. In a press briefing on July 28, CITU district general secretary R. K. S.V. Kumar shared insights on the discussions held during the conference. Participants reviewed previous agitations aimed at protecting VSP and reinstating contract workers who were laid off. The conference also highlighted significant strikes led by Anganwadi workers, enduring 24 days, as well as actions from ASHA and Midday Meal workers protesting against the privatisation of the Golden Jubilee Hospital (GJH) associated with Visakhapatnam Port. In addition, the necessity for the revival of the Building Construction Workers Welfare Board was underscored during the meet. The union's struggle has encompassed several key demands, including a minimum wage of ₹26,000, job security, regularisation of contract and outsourcing workers, and a general strike observed on July 9 advocating against the withdrawal of four Labour Codes believed to jeopardise worker interests. The conference determined to further amplify these protests to realize the pressing needs of workers across sectors. New leadership was elected unanimously during the conference. The committee now consists of 26 executive members and 106 council members, with K.M. Srinivasa Rao and R. K. S. V. Kumar appointed as president and general secretary, respectively, and Jyothi filling the role of treasurer. Activism isn't slowing down, as the committee announced plans for a district-level seminar to address the proposal of installing smart meters, scheduled for July 29 at Alluri Vignana Kendram. Simultaneously, a dharna will occur at the AP EPDCL Office, calling attention to workers’ rights and issues. In a show of solidarity and ongoing mobilization, CITU will also host its 18th national conference for the first time in the city on December 4, which aims to unify efforts to advocate for labour rights and address concerns faced by workers. Notable CITU secretaries, P. Mani and K. Chandrasekhar, participated in the conference press briefing, reinforcing the union's resolve to support local workers.

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Tags: Citu, Workers' rights, Visakhapatnam steel plant, Minimum wage, Labour issues,