India’s largest trade unions are preparing nationwide demonstrations as anger mounts over the government’s new labour codes, which unions say threaten worker protections, collective bargaining and job security. The groups, representing tens of millions across industries, accuse the government of forcing through sweeping legislation without adequate consultation and warn that Wednesday’s planned protests could mark the beginning of a wider national pushback.

The labour codes consolidate 29 existing laws into four major frameworks covering wages, industrial relations, social security and workplace safety. The government argues that the overhaul modernises outdated regulations, simplifies compliance and strengthens India’s appeal to global manufacturers. Unions counter that the changes tilt heavily toward employers by limiting workers’ rights to strike, easing rules for layoffs and potentially undermining safety and welfare standards.

What has accelerated tensions is the pace of implementation. Union leaders say the laws were rushed through parliament, leaving workers vulnerable at a moment when inflation, job losses and wage stagnation are already worsening conditions for low and middle-income households. Several state governments have begun aligning with the new federal codes, prompting unions to mobilise before full adoption.

The protests, planned across major cities and industrial hubs, are expected to draw transport workers, construction staff, public-sector unions and manufacturing groups. Organisers say they will hold marches, sit-ins and coordinated work stoppages to pressure the government into withdrawing the legislation entirely rather than amending it.

Economists note that the confrontation comes at a critical moment for India’s labour market. The country is pursuing aggressive foreign investment goals, expanding industrial corridors and negotiating incentives to attract multinational manufacturers shifting supply chains out of China. Any large-scale labour unrest could complicate these efforts and increase political pressure ahead of state elections.

Business groups, meanwhile, argue that the updated codes are essential for easing compliance burdens and improving India’s competitiveness. They insist that the new frameworks offer clearer protections for workers while reducing regulatory fragmentation that has long discouraged investment.

For unions on the ground, however, the fear is that the reforms open the door to widespread contractualisation, reduced job security and weaker safety oversight in industries already prone to accidents and wage disputes. Senior union figures say the demonstrations are a warning shot and that more sustained action may follow if the government refuses to reverse course.

As Wednesday approaches, policymakers, investors and workers are watching closely. The scale of the turnout will signal whether India is entering a prolonged period of labour confrontation at a moment when its economic ambitions are higher than ever.