With Durga Puja approaching, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has taken to the streets of Agartala demanding the immediate disbursement of bonus and ex‑gratia payments for workers across various sectors. The protest march began from the CITU office and culminated at the Labour Commissioner’s office, where a mass deputation was submitted.

The programme saw participation from former minister and CPI(M) leader Manik Dey, senior CITU leader Shankar Prasad Dutta, along with other trade union representatives and workers from diverse professions.

Speaking at the rally, Manik Dey stressed that CITU has long been pressing for workers’ bonuses to be settled well before the festive season. He demanded that workers covered under the Bonus Act receive a minimum of 8.33 percent bonus, while those outside its ambit should be granted ex‑gratia or festival allowances.

Dey highlighted the rising cost of essential commodities such as sugar, mustard oil, and pulses, arguing that stagnant wages have left workers struggling to manage household expenses. He also pointed to inadequacies in the ration system, claiming that ordinary citizens are not receiving sufficient supplies.

On the issue of tea garden workers, Dey recalled that last year many estates paid bonuses at around 20 percent. With production increasing this year, CITU has demanded bonuses in the range of 20 to 25 percent.

The CPI(M) leader also launched a sharp critique of the new labour codes introduced by the central government, alleging that they undermine workers’ rights. He warned that CITU would intensify its agitation if these “anti‑worker codes” are not withdrawn.

Dey further insisted that bonus and ex‑gratia agreements must be finalised and implemented at least 20 days before the Puja, and urged the Labour Department to monitor compliance. He called on workers to report any denial of entitlements directly to trade unions or the department.