Goa Khabar : Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Amit Patkar today extended his complete support to the nationwide protest organised by the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) at Azad Maidan – Panjim, demanding justice, fair wages, and dignity for India’s working class.
“This protest is not just a demonstration—it is a powerful expression of anger and frustration by India’s backbone: its workers. The BJP government at the Centre and in Goa has failed them at every level,” said Patkar.
He strongly criticised the BJP-led governments for their anti-labour policies, stating that workers across sectors are being pushed into insecurity, exploitation, and neglect.
Goan Workers Abandoned by the State
Patkar highlighted the specific injustice meted out to various sections of the Goan working class, calling the situation “alarming and unacceptable.”
Kadamba Transport Workers
“Kadamba Transport Corporation, once the pride of Goa, has been reduced to a sinking ship. Workers are being overburdened, their salaries are delayed, and contractualization is rampant. The BJP government is deliberately weakening KTC to benefit private transporters.”
Anganwadi Workers
“Our Anganwadi Sevikas and helpers who serve children, mothers, and families at the grassroots are paid meagre honorariums. Despite promises of better pay and regularisation, they are treated like second-class workers.”
Mining Workers
“The plight of mining-dependent families remains unresolved. Thousands who lost their livelihood due to mining shutdown continue to suffer. The BJP promised restart, but gave nothing except empty assurances. No resettlement, no compensation, no alternative employment.”
Daily Wage Workers & Contract Staff
Patkar also raised concern over daily wagers in PWD, Forest Department, and municipalities, saying:
“These workers have served for years without benefits, promotions, or confirmation. Their exploitation reflects the BJP’s anti-worker mindset. Even after repeated protests, their basic demands remain unheard.”
Congress Stands with Workers – Always
Patkar reaffirmed the Indian National Congress’s historic and unwavering commitment to protecting workers’ rights, ensuring fair employment, and dignified living conditions.
“Congress believes that India’s development is meaningless if the hands that build the nation remain hungry and unheard. From enacting labour welfare laws to protecting unions, Congress has always stood by the working class—and we will continue to do so.”
He warned the BJP government that if it continues to exploit and ignore the voice of the workers, it will face a united resistance both on the streets and in the elections.
