Senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge spearheaded a vocal demonstration by opposition Members of Parliament within the Parliament complex on Wednesday, vehemently opposing the government's newly introduced labour codes. The protest, marked by slogan-shouting and visible displays of dissent, has escalated the political confrontation over the contentious reforms.
Leaders at the Forefront of Dissent
The protest saw a significant gathering of parliamentarians from the Congress and other like-minded opposition parties. Carrying posters and placards that clearly stated their objections, the MPs raised their voices in unison, demanding the complete withdrawal of the four new labour codes. The presence of Sonia Gandhi, the party's former president, and Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, underscored the high-priority status of this issue for the Congress party.
The Core of the Controversy
The new labour codes, which aim to consolidate and modernize a plethora of existing labour laws, have been a point of fierce debate since their conception. The opposition, along with several trade unions, argues that the codes dilute hard-won worker protections, undermine job security, and favour employers disproportionately. Protesters allege that the reforms could lead to longer working hours, reduced social security benefits, and make it easier for companies to hire and fire employees.
The demonstration inside the Parliament premises is a strategic move to draw maximum attention to their cause, ensuring the protest is visible to both the ruling dispensation and the national media. The event took place on 03 December 2025, as confirmed by reports.
Political Repercussions and Next Steps
This public and organized protest signals a hardening of the opposition's stance and sets the stage for a potentially turbulent winter session of Parliament. The government, however, maintains that the codes are progressive and necessary to attract investment, simplify compliance, and ultimately generate employment in a formalized economy.
The key demands from the protesting MPs include:
- An immediate and unconditional rollback of all four labour codes.
- Wider consultations with all stakeholders, especially workers' unions.
- The introduction of new legislation that firmly safeguards labour rights.
As the political deadlock continues, the focus now shifts to whether this protest will translate into coordinated parliamentary obstruction or lead to broader negotiations. The opposition's ability to sustain this pressure outside the Parliament complex, by mobilizing public and union support, will be crucial in determining the outcome of this significant policy battle.
