The CPI(M) has condemned the Andhra Pradesh government’s decision to increase working hours for labourers from eight to 13 hours. The party demanded that the the resolution passed by the Legislative Assembly and Council in this regard be withdrawn with immediate effect.
In a statement on Tuesday, CPI(M) State Secretary V. Srinivas Rao said that the government had failed to revise the minimum wages for the past 13 years and urged the authorities to update them in line with current living costs.
“The NDA government is favouring investors at the cost of workers’ interests. The State Cabinet approved the extension of working hours on June 4 this year. We condemn the move to increase overtime, extended night shifts for women, and inadequate facilities and protection for female workers as these measures will benefit employers only,” he said.
He criticised the YSRCP for failing to oppose the legislation effectively. While the YSRCP members boycotted the Council, they did not vote against the increase in working hours. Only PDF MLC B. Gopimurthy stood in opposition, he said.
Published – September 24, 2025 12:20 am IST
