Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Jul 10: The nationwide strike called by central trade unions on Wednesday, protesting against what they termed the central government’s anti-labor, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate policies, had little impact across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, where day-to-day life remained largely unaffected.

Commercial activities, public transportation, and essential services in Mangaluru city and surrounding taluks functioned as usual. While the strike failed to disrupt normal life, it did see symbolic participation from local labor organizations and union members.

In Mangaluru, a group of workers and employees assembled at Dr B R Ambedkar Circle, raising slogans against the Union government. The protesters later held a public meeting near the Clock Tower, voicing their opposition to policies they alleged were eroding workers' rights. Similar demonstrations were reported from various taluks within the district. Workers at the Old Port Wholesale Market also expressed solidarity with the strike by refraining from routine activities.

In Udupi district, labor unions staged coordinated protests in Kundapur, Byndoor, and Udupi town. In Udupi city, demonstrators gathered in front of the main post office, later submitting a petition addressed to the Prime Minister via the post office superintendent. Members of the Insurance Employees' Association also held a protest at the Ajjarkadu LIC divisional office, demanding policy reforms and submitting their grievances in writing.

The protests, though vocal, were peaceful and orderly. In the city area, a brief road blockade occurred, after which the protestors resumed their march without causing inconvenience to the public. There were no reports of violence, traffic disruption, or any enforced shutdown, and normalcy prevailed in both districts throughout the day.

Despite the nationwide call, the bandh-like atmosphere was absent, and the general public went about their routine as usual, signaling limited public traction for the strike in the coastal belt.