Thiruvananthapuram: A nationwide strike called by 10 opposition-aligned trade unions against the policies of the Central Government began at midnight on Tuesday and will continue until midnight on Wednesday. The 24-hour industrial action has significantly affected public transport and daily activities, especially in Kerala.

The strike was announced with a list of 17 demands, chief among them being the withdrawal of four recently implemented labour codes, which the unions have labelled “anti-worker.” Other key demands include controlling price hikes and halting the privatisation of public sector undertakings.

Prominent trade unions participating in the strike include CITU, INTUC, AITUC, Hind Mazdoor Sabha and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha. BMS, an affiliate of the ruling BJP, has not joined the protest.

In Kerala, the strike has brought most public transport to a standstill. KSRTC buses are off the roads, private buses in districts like Kozhikode are not running, and only a handful of autorickshaws and private vehicles are seen operating. In Kochi, protestors blocked a KSRTC bus, prompting police intervention.

University examinations have been postponed, and many commercial establishments remain closed. At major railway stations, including Thiruvananthapuram, police vehicles have been arranged to assist stranded passengers.

The Kerala government has issued a strict directive to its employees, warning that any participation in the strike will result in loss of pay for the day. A circular clarified that salary for July 9 will be deducted from the August payroll for those who join the protest. It also added that no leave, except for essential reasons such as illness, examinations or maternity, will be sanctioned for the strike day.