Kharge urges stronger worker protections as INTUC turns 79

‎Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday praised the legacy of the Indian National Trade Union Congress on its 79th foundation day, calling for renewed efforts to protect labour rights amid evolving economic challenges.

‎In a message on social media platform X, Kharge conveyed “heartfelt gratitude” to the organisation’s members for their sustained struggle to uphold workers’ dignity. “As the Indian National Trade Union Congress marks 79 years, I extend heartfelt gratitude to its countless members who have tirelessly fought for labour rights,” he said.

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‎Reflecting on the union’s ideological foundations, Kharge said INTUC drew inspiration from prominent figures of India’s freedom movement and early leadership, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, Jagjivan Ram, Aruna Asaf Ali and Gulzari Lal Nanda. He emphasised that the organisation has consistently upheld Gandhian values while advocating for workers across sectors.

‎“INTUC has stood for the dignity of workers, rooted in Gandhian values,” Kharge said, noting its role in advancing labour welfare in both organised and unorganised segments.

‎Addressing present-day concerns, he underlined the need to extend social security to vulnerable groups. “On this foundation day, we must renew our resolve to address emerging challenges, ensuring social security for the unorganised sector, gig and platform workers, khet-mazdoors, artisans and casual labour — advancing the cause of social justice,” he said.

‎Established in 1947, INTUC is among India’s oldest trade union federations and has long been associated with the Congress party. It has played a key role in shaping labour policy and advocating workers’ rights through periods of economic change, including liberalisation and the expansion of informal and gig employment.

‎Kharge’s remarks come amid growing national debate on labour reforms and social security, with trade unions and political stakeholders calling for stronger safeguards for workers in an increasingly shifting employment landscape.