Tamil Nadu Govt Enforces ‘No Work, No Pay’ Rule Ahead of July 9 National Strike

As India braces for a nationwide strike on July 9, 2025, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a stern warning to its employees, making it clear that the "No Work, No Pay" policy will be strictly enforced for those who stay away from duty in support of the protest.

Strike Backed by Major Trade Unions

The strike, called by 10 national trade unions, is being held to protest against what they call the "anti-people" and "anti-labour" policies of the Union government. Among the unions supporting the strike are:

• Labour Progressive Front (LPF) – affiliated with the ruling DMK

• Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) – affiliated with the Congress

• Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) – affiliated with the CPI(M)

• All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) – affiliated with the CPI

The Joint Action Council of Tamil Nadu Teachers Organisations and Government Employees Organisations (JACTTO-GEO) has also extended its support to the strike.

Government's Strict Warning to Employees

Despite political affiliations of some trade unions with the ruling party, the Tamil Nadu government has taken a tough stance against the strike. In a circular issued by Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam, employees have been warned that any absence on July 9 will invite disciplinary action.

Key directives include:

• No Casual Leave or Other Leave (except on medical grounds) will be permitted on the day

• Attendance reports must be submitted by 10:15 a.m. to the government

• Part-time, daily wage, and consolidated pay employees may be discharged from service if absent

• Violation of Conduct Rules 20, 22, and 22-A will lead to action under the Tamil Nadu Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1973

“Participation in strike or any agitation by employees amounts to a serious violation of service conduct rules,” the circular noted.

Political and Legal Ramifications

This move has created a politically sensitive situation, as the LPF—a pro-DMK union—is among the strike's key organizers. However, the government has reiterated that administrative discipline must prevail, regardless of political affiliations.

Legal experts suggest that while employees have a right to protest, government servants are bound by specific codes of conduct, and violations can lead to serious consequences, including loss of pay and termination.

What This Means for Employees and Services

With this strict directive in place, many government employees may be forced to skip the protest. Essential services such as health, transport, and administration are expected to function normally, though mild disruptions cannot be ruled out if a large number of employees defy the order.

Meanwhile, unions have stated that they are committed to the strike and may challenge any disciplinary actions legally.

Conclusion

As tensions rise between employees and the administration, the July 9 strike is expected to be a litmus test for both government resolve and trade union strength. With the Tamil Nadu government holding firm on its "No Work, No Pay" stance, all eyes will be on how public servants respond—and how the day unfolds across the state.