An all India bandh call was called on February 28, by the left parties’ trade union. Activists from the unions blocked buses in almost all bus depots in the state. In Hyderabad at the main bus depot Mahatma Gandhi Bus Stand activists, including the former MP Madhu, staged a protest and blocked the busses. They were arrested by the police. Similar incidents occurred today, in Rajahmundry, Kadapa and Nalgonda, as of reports that have just reached now. Many activists were arrested. Transportation in the entire state has come to a standstill. Only skeletal services are operated, but reaching destination on time is still a question of doubt. Banks and Educational institutes are closed for the day. Security has been tightened across all railway stations in the state, especially in the twin cities.

The demands in the strike are against the price rise, protection of job security, enforcement of labor laws, social security for the unorganized sector, against privatization, against the contract labor system, for universal minimum wage of Rs. 10000 per month, for removal of ceilings on Bonus and Provident Fund and increase in quantum of Gratuity. For Pension for all and to enforce registration of trade unions, enforce the right to form trade unions of ones choice and to enforce the right to collective bargaining.

Even educational institutes have joined the bandh and closed the institutes. They are protesting against the central government decision regarding announcing compulsory education scheme for the children between age group 6 to 14 years but no funds being released. The leaders of A.S.F.I., N.S.F., T.N.S.F. appealed to all the students and the teachers to participate in “Bandh”. (With inputs from the internet – AarKay)