New Delhi: The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Friday said it would extend its support to the one-day general strike called by the central trade unions Aug 20.

Seven trade unions have announced the strike to force the government to agree to their various demands, including strict implementation of all labour laws particularly in respect of minimum wages, working hours, social security and stringent action against all violations.

The trade unions have claimed they have the backing of several federations in sectors ranging from banking, railways, insurance, central and state government employees, defence, telecom, airlines and airports.

The CPI-M announced its support for the strike after a two-day meeting of the party central committee here.

The central committee also elected a seven-member secretariat, headed by general secretary Prakash Karat. The members elected are Hari Singh Kang, Hannan Mollah, V. Srinivasa Rao, Nilotpal Basu, A. Vijayaraghavan and Jogendra Sharma.

 

Source : IANS