SDTU to hold regional conference in Coimbatore on September 22, highlighting six demands including job creation. The party criticizes both central and state governments for policies affecting workers and small businesses.
Coimbatore: The Social Democratic Trade Union (SDTU) is set to organize a regional conference in Coimbatore on September 22, focusing on six key demands including the repeal of the new Motor Vehicle Act, revival of public sector enterprises, and GST exemption for small and micro industries. The conference logo was released at the SDPI district office in Coimbatore, with state general secretary Rauf Nisthar and party executives in attendance.
Rauf Nisthar, addressing the media, criticized the BJP-led central government for its anti-worker policies since coming to power. He stated, "The BJP government has amended several laws to benefit corporates at the expense of workers. The 2019 amendment to the 1988 Motor Vehicle Act has significantly increased fines and prison sentences for traffic violations. We demand the withdrawal of these amendments."
Nisthar also highlighted concerns about the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Tamil Nadu, arguing that they are designed to attract foreign investments at the cost of workers' rights and environmental protection. He emphasized the need for SEZs that do not harm workers or nature.
The SDPI leader pointed out the negative impact of policies like GST and demonetization on small and micro industries in the Coimbatore region. "The recently announced central budget has also betrayed Tamil Nadu. We demand GST exemption for small and micro industries," he added.
Criticizing the privatization drive of the current government, Nisthar said, "While previous prime ministers from Jawaharlal Nehru to Manmohan Singh created 360 public sector enterprises, the Modi government has sold 60 PSUs and is attempting to sell the remaining ones. We demand the creation of new public sector enterprises instead of selling existing ones."
Nisthar cited statistics from CMIE (Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy) claiming that 48% of youth are unemployed, indicating a rise in joblessness. He emphasized, "For the country to progress and become a superpower, there should be no unemployment."
The SDPI leader also criticized the Tamil Nadu government for not implementing its election promise of monthly electricity billing while increasing electricity tariffs three times. He demanded the rollback of the increased electricity charges and immediate implementation of monthly billing as promised.
Nisthar announced that the conference aims to gather 4,000 participants and will include special invitees from various leadership positions. He added that a rally and public meeting are also planned, with invitations extended to alliance parties and trade union leaders.