Trade Union Strike: About 30 Crore Workers and Farmers Participate in Protest Against Labour Codes

On February 12, 2026, millions of workers and farmers across India took to the streets to raise their voices in defense of their rights. Approximately 30 crore participants engaged in protests opposing four new labour codes, expressing concerns that these laws may undermine workers’ rights.

Farmers joining the strike feared that trade agreements could negatively affect their livelihoods. Additionally, there were apprehensions that weakening or abolishing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) would eliminate a crucial source of support for rural communities.

These widespread demonstrations reflect significant anxiety across both labour and agricultural sectors regarding recent legislative changes.

Key Takeaways

• On February 12, 2026, around 30 crore workers and farmers protested across India.
• The strike opposed four new labour codes seen as harmful to workers’ rights.
• Farmers expressed concerns over trade agreements affecting their livelihoods.
• Apprehensions about weakening MGNREGA highlighted its importance to rural communities.
• The protests indicate widespread concern about recent legislative reforms in labour and agriculture sectors.