New Delhi, Jan 7 (KNN) Karnataka Small Scale Industries Association (KASSIA) has said that the 'Bharat Bandh' by the Central Trade Union Organisations will disrupt industrial operations in the state.

''The All India Bundh announced by the Central Trade Union Organisations is likely to result in disruption of industrial operations throughout the State.  KASSIA feels that this couldn’t have come at a very worse time. As is very evident the industries are going through a difficult phase, the impact of which has been severe for SMEs in particular,'' the industries body said in a press release on Tuesday.

KASSIA has urged government to provide protection for those industries who will operate tomorrow.

''While the Unions have a democratic right to express themselves in all legitimate forms, KASSIA would like to request the Government to ensure that those industries which would like to operate tomorrow must be given adequate protection to continue to work.  The protection must be extended to industries in the districts also by suitable advise to the district administrations to ensure safety of the industries to operate,'' KASSIA suggested.

The central trade said that they will go on a strike or Bharat Bandh on January 8th to voice their anger against anti-labour policies of the government.

"The Central Trade Unions conveyed their firm resolve after the meeting called by Union Labour Minister (on Thursday). The general strike on January 8, 2020 stands," a joint statement issued by the 10 central trade unions said.

Meanwhile, Banking services are also expected to be severely hit as several bank employee unions have announced to join the all-India general strike or 'Bharat Bandh' on January 8.

As major banks will remain close on January 8, ATMs and branch services might also be affected. While State Bank of India (SBI) has expected the effect to be minimal, several small banks fear that their operations will face a massive blow.

Reportedly, Unions participating in the strike include All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS) and Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA).

The All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), Labour Progressive Federation (LPF), United Trade Union Congress (UTUC), Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) and Trade Union Coordination Centre (TUCC) will also take part.

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