Kolkata, Feb. 12 -- A nationwide industrial strike called on Thursday by a joint forum of 21 central trade unions evoked a partial response across West Bengal, with work affected in some banks, factories and industrial zones, while normal activities continued in many areas.
The strike was part of a nationwide general strike called by central trade unions, including CITU, AITUC and UTUC, demanding the repeal of the four new labour codes introduced by replacing 29 existing labour laws.
The unions alleged that the new codes were "anti-worker, curtailed labour rights, reduced job security and made hiring and retrenchment" easier for employers.
They also raised concerns over privatisation, wage structures, and lack of social security. In poll...