SOME FEEL THAT INDIVIDUALS SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO STRIKE IN ALL JOBS WHILE OTHERS FEEL THERE ARE EXCEPTIONS. DISCUSS BOTH VIEWS AND GIVE YOUR OWN OPINION.

The relationship between the employer and employees is designed to remain in a state of equilibrium with steadfast workers on one side and profitable business owners on the other. A part of society believes, however, that allowance to stop work at offices and factories should be given to all work sectors irrespective of their criticality. In my opinion, the right to protest should be given but some sensitive sectors should be kept away from its ambit and I shall elaborate on it in the upcoming paragraphs with the help of suitable supporting ideas.

To embark with, it is a fundamental right given by the constitution of almost all nations to the workforce to protest in circumstances where the workers’ rights are infringed upon. In case of advertent delays in providing resolution to the complaints and demands of the workmen, it becomes obvious to protest and ensure the message is communicated to the management. For example, poor food and sanitation conditions at the Indian Hockey Academy in Shimla led to a vociferous agitation and strike and ultimately forced the stakeholders to announce the reforms implemented.

Nevertheless, while keeping in mind the rights of workforce the significance of critical areas of work cannot be ignored because of the possible long-haul repercussions in case of national security and emergency situations. During the contingencies like natural calamities like earthquake, landslides and floods, the emergency response and action is irreplaceable and must be activated without any delay. For Example, the 2022 earthquake in Turkey brought devastation to the country and led to loss of lives and property but the losses were mitigated due to global cohesion in providing support and relief.

To reiterate, it is evident that non-critical sectors can be given the legitimate right to protest and halt work-related activities but in view of exigencies of highest degrees, the right to protest must be excluded.