Chennai: It was exactly 94 years ago in Madras that May Day was first observed in India to fight for the rights of the working classes.
Led by M. Singaravelar, leader of Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, the day was dedicated to workers, with a function being held at Marina beach here in 1923 to mark the occasion.
A Congress party leader, he later broke ranks with it and aided the setting up of the Communist Party of India in 1925. A staunch supporter of the self-respect movement, he fought especially for the rights of the backward classes.
Also, Madras (now Chennai) has the distinction of forming the first organised trade union, the "Madras Labour Union," on April 27, 1918, here to strive for workers' rights.
It led to setting up of several other trade unions, including those of tramway and railway workers, enabling them have the power of collective bargain with managements.
Reminiscing the May Day history, plight of workers and contribution of leaders like Singaravelar, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP T. K. Rangarajan told PTI that neo-liberal policies went against the interests of workers.
The amendments being brought by the Centre in labour laws showed that the government wanted to put the working classes at the "mercy" of capitalists, he alleged.
"Struggle is already on against anti-labour measures and it is the only way out," he said.
