rki.news

Altaf Hamid Rao.

MIRPUR (AJK): Preparations are in full swing as labourers across Azad Jammu & Kashmir are set to observe International Workers’ Day on Friday, May 1, to pay tribute to workers who sacrificed their lives for labour rights in Chicago 138 years ago.
International Labour Day is observed globally on May 1 each year to highlight workers’ rights, recognize their contributions, and raise awareness about welfare, dignity, and equal opportunities for the working class. The day traces its origin to the historic labour struggle in Chicago, where workers laid down their lives demanding fair rights.
According to labour representatives, special programmes have been chalked out across AJK, including coordination among various workers’ organizations such as the AJK PWD Workers Organization. A spokesperson said the day will be observed with traditional zeal and enthusiasm across both sides of the Line of Control in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), despite restrictions.
As part of the arrangements, rallies, processions, and gatherings will be held in all ten districts of AJK, including Mirpur, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bagh, Rawalakot, Sudhanoti, and Bhimber, along with tehsil headquarters. Organizers said the events aim to highlight unity among workers, strengthen collective voices, and reaffirm commitment to protecting labour rights and social justice.
In Mirpur, the main procession will start from View Point near Quaid-e-Azam International Cricket Stadium Chowk. Participants will march through Mian Muhammad Road, Shaheed Chowk, and Allama Iqbal Road before converging into a central rally, where labour leaders and representatives will highlight the historical significance of the day and pay tribute to the Chicago martyrs.
Speakers from various trade unions and labour organizations will address the gathering, emphasizing workers’ rights, struggles, and contributions to society. They are also expected to call for improved wages, safer working conditions, and greater social protection for labourers across all sectors.
Meanwhile, reports from across the Line of Control suggest that despite strict restrictions imposed by Indian authorities in IIOJK, labour communities are planning rallies and demonstrations to observe the day, defying prohibitory orders to highlight their demands and solidarity with global workers’ movements.