PANAJI: The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) will commemorate International Workers' Day with a major public meeting in Panaji on May 1, where it will present a 'Working People’s Charter-2025' to the State government. The charter outlines 25 key demands addressing workers' rights across sectors.
Speaking to the media today, AITUC leader Christopher Fonseca, along with State president Prasanna Utagi and Dy General Secretary Raju Mangeshkar, outlined the union’s plans for May Day celebrations. "This May Day, we will not only reflect on our struggles but also chart a clear course for the future of the workers' movement," Fonseca said.
The convention will pass a comprehensive resolution highlighting the history of AITUC’s struggles, the current challenges faced by the working class, and the union’s future strategies. Issues affecting workers from rural and urban sectors, including those in industries, manufacturing, agriculture, and traditional occupations, will be at the heart of discussions.
The charter will specifically demand an increase in minimum wages for workers employed under gram panchayats, Goa Dairy, pre-primary helpers, PWD labour supply societies, and Anganwadi teachers. It will also address injustices faced by pharmaceutical sector employees. "Our charter is a reflection of the urgent need to correct injustices suffered by a large section of the workforce," Fonseca stated.
Additionally, the convention will adopt a resolution mourning the untimely deaths of tourists in the recent terror attack at Pahalgam, as well as veteran leaders Sitaram Yechury and Lavu Mamlatdar.
Fonseca further went on to criticize the current State government, calling it "anti-labour and pro-management," and urged workers across Goa to participate in large numbers in the march from Panaji KTC bus stand and to the Garcia Municipal Garden.
The May Day campaign will not be limited to just one day, Fonseca said, adding that the momentum will continue beyond May 1 to keep workers' issues in public focus.
