Activists Protest Against TCS Mass Layoffs
In a devastating move, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) initiated mass layoffs affecting over 12,200 employees. In connection to this, members of the IT and ITES Democratic Employees Association (IIDEA) staged a protest outside the TCS office in Whitefield on 5th September. The protestors demanded an immediate halt to the layoffs, provision of fair severance, health care and job transition support, and a transparent layoff criterion. They also demanded the ethical use of automation to reduce workload instead of eliminating jobs.
Citizen Groups Conduct Pro-Palestine Protests Across India.
India witnessed several protests in September against Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. On the 26th September, hundreds gathered in Freedom Park, Bengaluru, demanding that the Indian and Karnataka governments cut ties with Israeli companies. Chennai saw a massive rally on the 19th, with prominent politicians, activists and entertainers attending the event. The protestors criticised Modi’s silence and pointed out USA’s involvement in the genocide. In Delhi, activists protested in front of Pizza Hut outlets highlighting the company’s involvement in the genocide.
Protests Erupt Across India in Response to Islamophobic Action by Kanpur Police
Earlier in September, a poster stating ‘I love Muhammad’ was erected during celebrations in Kanpur. This was turned communal by local Hindutva groups. Police prohibited ‘introducing new customs into religious processions’ and filed an FIR against multiple Muslims sparking protests across India.
Erode Sees Protests over Issues of Land and Mining
Erode saw two key protests in September. On the 24th September, several Dalit families protested at the Collectorate seeking patta to lands promised to them decades ago. Many of the beneficiaries had been evicted, and the land was encroached. The protestors urged the administration to allot 250 acres to the aggrieved families. On the 26th September, several hundred villagers protested at the collector’s office against the establishment of a stone quarry. Around 2,000 families living in the locality will be affected by the quarry as it will reduce the water table and the blasts will damage houses.
Protests Erupt in Manipur Ahead of Modi’s Visit
PM Modi visited Manipur on 13th September to inaugurate infrastructure projects. Since the outbreak of violence over two years ago, this is the prime minister’s first visit to Manipur. In connection to the visit, protests erupted in Imphal. Protestors expressed frustration at the PM’s inaction during the Manipur violence which caused the death and injury of thousands and displacement of over 60,000 individuals.
