May Day 2025: The Flame of Class Struggle Burns Bright Across Pakistan

By Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC)

On May 1st, 2025, Pakistan witnessed a powerful wave of rallies, seminars, and cultural events as workers, students, trade unions, and progressive organizations united under the banner of resistance against capitalist exploitation and in memory of the martyrs of Chicago. The Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) along with Peoples Revolutionary Front (PRF), Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) and Revolutionary Students Front (RSF), in alliance with various labor federations and social organizations, led widespread demonstrations across the country and its held areas. These events highlighted ongoing struggles against privatization, inflation, job insecurity, IMF dictates, and systemic inequality, while renewing the pledge for socialist transformation.

Sadiqabad
On the occasion of May Day, the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) organized a massive workers’ rally in Sadiqabad, beginning at Bagh-e-Bahisht. A large number of leaders and workers from the CBA union of Fauji Fertilizer Company participated in the rally. Covering a 16-kilometer route through the city, more factory workers joined the procession along the way.

The rally passed by Jamal Din Wali Sugar Mill No. 2 and reached Gate No. 2 of Fatima Fertilizer, where a brief gathering was held. Speakers included PTUDC Central Secretary Qamar uz Zaman Khan, newly elected General Secretary of the Fauji Fertilizer Bagging and Loading Contractors Union Nawab Deen Lashari, and a dismissed worker from Fatima Fertilizer, Jahanzaib Babar.

The rally then moved to the main gate of Fatima Fertilizer Plant, where a gate meeting was held. Addressing the workers, General Secretary of the Fatima Fertilizer All Contractors Union (CBA) Aslam Abbasi and Qamar uz Zaman Khan highlighted the injustices faced by workers. Many of the dismissed workers from the plant were present, wearing chains around their wrists to symbolize the slavery and exploitation they endured. These workers were not only denied freedom of expression but were also terminated for demanding their rights.

The rally then reached the gate of Fauji Fertilizer, where participants chanted slogans in support of workers’ rights and voiced their demands. A short gathering took place here as well, where Nawab Deen Lashari demanded the regularization of contract workers and resolution of their long-standing issues. He also raised basic concerns such as provision of shelters inside the factory, access to clean drinking water, and repairs of broken trolleys used for transporting bags. He criticized the management for boasting about high profits while claiming a lack of funds when it came to addressing workers’ needs.

The rally continued its long march into the city of Sarka abad, where it was welcomed in front of the Highway Workers’ Union office by highway laborers dressed in red clothes and turbans. Carrying their banners, they joined the rally. The march then reached the Rescue 1122 office, where a large crowd of workers, students, and political activists had gathered. The union of the two rallies transformed it into a massive procession. As the rally passed through Ready Hospital Road, it was greeted with flower petals by PPP leader Bashir Ahmed Soomro and his comrades. Citizens had also set up water stalls for participants, and shopkeepers expressed solidarity by waving from their storefronts.

Finally, the rally reached Railway Chowk, where a grand stage had been set up for a public gathering. Speakers paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and emphasized the relevance of their sacrifices in today’s context, highlighting the decaying nature of capitalism and the urgent need for its overthrow.

Comrade Advocate Abdul Samad served as stage secretary and presented resolutions to the audience, all of which were unanimously passed. Key demands included:

• End outsourcing in the health and education sectors.

• Reinstate dismissed workers from Fatima and Fauji Fertilizer companies.

• Condemn war hysteria and the aggressive policies of India’s fundamentalist government.

• End IMF slavery and liberate the national economy.

• Halt privatization and nationalize collapsing industries.

• Nationalize IPPs and reduce electricity costs.

• Reject Israeli occupation of Palestine and call for an end to aggression against the Palestinian people.

Speakers at the event included Jahanzaib Babar, Nawab Deen Lashari, Aslam Abbasi, Ejaz Sarwar, Khawar Bajwa, Rana Khalid Mehmood, Maulana Fazal Kareem, Qamar uz Zaman Khan, Saboor Chaudhry, Hafiz Abdul Razzaq, Khaleel Ahmed, and Nadeem Butt. This was a unique and historic labor gathering in Sadiqabad that not only energized participants but also informed the general public about workers’ issues and struggles. Although some fundamentalist elements attempted to disrupt the event, their efforts were thwarted by the timely and strategic actions of trade union leaders.

Hyderabad I
A gathering was organized at the Hyderabad Press Club by the Mehran Workers Federation to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. Workers from various institutions participated enthusiastically in the event. PTUDC Provincial General Secretary Raza Khan Swati, Mehran Workers Federation Deputy General Secretary and senior PTUDC leader Comrade J. Parkash, and President of the Mehran Workers Federation Ghulam Rasool Memon addressed the gathering. They paid homage to the Chicago martyrs and discussed in detail the contemporary challenges faced by workers and the possible solutions.

Hyderabad II
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, a rally was organized from Old Campus to the Hyderabad Press Club by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign, All Pakistan Clerks Association (APCA), All Pakistan OGDCL Workers Union (CBA), NADRA Employees Reinstatement Movement, Mehran Workers Federation, Mehran Workers Union WASA, and Water Corporation Employees Union, to pay tribute to the great struggle of the martyrs of Chicago. Workers from various government and private institutions, as well as factory workers, students, and women, participated in the event. Participants held banners and placards with slogans highlighting the struggles of the Chicago martyrs, including protests against inflation, privatization, unemployment, load shedding, poverty, outsourcing of educational institutions and hospitals, and the extraction of canals from the Indus River.

Speakers at the rally included Asad Durrani, General Secretary of APCA, Provincial General Secretary Parvez Baloch, District Leaders Ammar Qureshi, Abdullah Malik, PTUDC Provincial General Secretary Raza Khan Swati, Vice President Sarang Jam, Senior Leader Esar Das, Senior Vice President of All Pakistan OGDCL Workers Union (CBA) Hassan Bux Khoso, Gulab Dheo, Vice President Akbar Bhutto, Joint Secretary Ghulam Mustafa Khoso, Vice President of Tando Alam Oil Complex Shabbir Halai, Mehran Workers Federation President Ghulam Rasool Memon, General Secretary Shah Nawaz Rahim Shoro, Deputy General Secretary J. Prakash, Mehran Workers Union WASA leader Aslam Abbasi, and President of Water Corporation Employees Union Muhammad Ali Taheri, among others.

They emphasized that today’s day is being celebrated to honor the great workers whose sacrifices led to many benefits for workers, but the current rulers are intent on taking away all those benefits. Like previous governments, the current government is implementing IMF-driven, anti-labor policies, leading to outsourcing national institutions instead of creating new jobs. The upcoming budget is also expected to be prepared under the influence of international organizations, and taxes on workers will increase.

Despite working all year, workers remain deprived of their salaries, and workers’ colonies built with their own money are yet to allot homes to them. Grants from the Workers Welfare Board, previously provided, have not been given for many years, with widespread corruption taking place in the process. Many institutions, including NADRA, lack any service structure, and laws like the Essential Service Act are being used to deprive workers of their constitutional right to form unions. Government employees are struggling with time scale and upgradation issues, and the inadequate raise in their salaries does not match the growing inflation.

The rally participants strongly demanded the restoration of workers’ rights, reversal of decisions regarding the privatization and outsourcing of WAPDA, Railways, government schools, hospitals, and other institutions, a 100 per cent increase in workers’ salaries in the upcoming budget, an end to the unjust tax cuts of 35-40 per cent on OGDCL employees’ salaries, removal of the cap on basic pay, immediate payment of all Workers Welfare Board grants, abolition of the third-party system, and the permanent employment of contract workers. Additionally, the ban on unionization in NADRA and other institutions should be lifted, and the overdue wages and pensions of WASA and municipal employees should be paid immediately.

Quetta
International Workers’ Day was commemorated in Quetta with a significant event organized by the Pakistan Workers Federation, in collaboration with the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC). The event was held at the Agriculture Office in Rani Bagh, Saryab, at 9:00 AM, and saw a large turnout of representatives and workers from various labor unions, associations, and federations. Before the gathering, a rally commenced from Saryab Road, passing through the Pakistan Post and Survey Office, and concluded at Rani Bagh. The rally and meeting aimed to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago in 1886 and reaffirm the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights.

The gathering was presided over by Muhammad Hanif Muhammad Hasni, the President of the Pakistan Workers Federation in Balochistan, while Comrade Nazar Mengal, Chairman of PTUDC, was the chief guest. Key speakers at the event included Sanaaul Haq Nasir (General Secretary, Pakistan Workers Federation), Haji Abdul Karim Tareen (President, Agriculture Workers Union), Manzoor Ahmed Baloch (General Secretary, Martin Dow Marker Workers Union), Abdul Hamid Baloch (Provincial President, Agriculture Officers Association), Comrade Yahya Sultan (Leader, Communist Party of Pakistan, Balochistan), Hafiz Ismat Ullah (President, United Labor Front KESCO), Muhammad Bachal Abro (Senior Leader, Government Teachers Association, Constitutional), Haidar Baloch (Central Vice Chairman, Zameendar Kisan Tehreek), Mir Abdul Sattar Mengal (President, Market Committee Employees Union) and Comrade Abdul Rehman Sangat (Organizer PTUDC Mastung).

Muhammad Afzal Mengal served as the stage secretary, while Yousufi Baloch, a member of PTUDC and Press Secretary for the GTA Constitutional Quetta Division, presented the resolutions. Comrade Shakeela Baloch from PTUDC also recited a revolutionary poem dedicated to May Day. The speakers condemned the anti-worker policies, the IMF agenda, and the exploitation faced by workers, urging that if all workers’ organizations do not unite, the working class will continue to be deprived of its rights. The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to launching a collective movement against these policies through united struggle.

Swat – Khwazakhela
On May Day, a rally and meeting were organized by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign, Public Health Workers Association, Coal Mines Labour Union, Health Association, and UC Chairmans to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and to highlight the issues faced by workers. The meeting began with a speech by Comrade Bakhshi Mohammad of PTUDC, followed by speeches from Mohammad Amir, Ali Sher (Coal Mines Labour Union), Senior Vice President of PTUDC Comrade Ghufran Ahad Advocate, Fazal Subhan (Public Health Workers Association), Ajab Khan (Sugar Mills Association), Shujaat Ali Advocate (UC Chairman), and Hussain Ahmed (Journalis). The speakers addressed the challenges faced by workers and criticized the capitalist system. They emphasized the importance of organizing a joint struggle in the future and declared that without liberation from this oppressive system, the workers’ emancipation would remain impossible.

Rawalpindi
On May Day 2025, a rally was organized by the Municipal Labour Union CBA, Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign, PIA People’s Unity, House Building Finance Corporation Union, Railway Workers Union, and Railway Inqilabi Union. The rally commenced from the Municipal Corporation Rawalpindi and proceeded to the Rawalpindi Press Club.

During the rally, labor leaders addressed the crowd, highlighting the worsening conditions worldwide, particularly in Pakistan, which have deteriorated since 1886. They pointed to the widespread violence and brutality from Palestine to various parts of the world, making it nearly impossible for people to sustain their livelihood. The speakers emphasized the urgent need to unite against the capitalist system, stressing that the struggle should be organized on a class-based foundation. They declared that a workers-led government is the only path to liberation and justice.

Rawalpindi – Railway Loco Shed
Under the banner of the Pakistan Railway Inqilabi Union and the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC), a rally and meeting were organized at the Loco Shed Railway to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and to highlight the current challenges faced by the working class. Addressing the rally, Raja Imran (Central Vice President, Railway Inqilabi Union), Dr. Changez Malik (Central Joint Secretary, PTUDC), Asif Rasool (Railway Workers Union), Suhail (Railway Inqilabi Union), and Chaudhry Amir Altaf (Chairman, Inqilabi Union), along with other speakers, emphasized the historical significance of May Day and the worsening conditions faced by workers in the present era.

They condemned the exploitative capitalist system that continues to push workers into poverty, insecurity, and despair. The speakers stressed the urgent need to organize class-based struggle to overthrow this system and establish a society based on the rule of labor. They concluded with a powerful call for unity, chanting: “Long live workers’ unity!”

Lahore
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, multiple trade unions and labor organizations organized a spirited rally on Lahore’s Mall Road. The rally began at the Railway Workshop and concluded at Alhamra Hall, with comrades from PTUDC and RSF actively participating and displaying revolutionary zeal and political commitment.

During the rally, the revolutionary literature was distributed among the workers.

In addition, a public meeting was held in front of the Lahore Press Club, comprising various labor and journalist organizations.

On this historic occasion of May Day, the comrades once again reaffirmed their commitment: “The true emancipation of the working class is only possible through a socialist revolution!”

Karachi
On May 1, at 4:00 PM, a joint rally was organized by various trade unions, student organizations, laborers, lawyers, journalists, civil society groups, and other progressive movements from Regal Chowk to the Karachi Press Club.

The demonstrators raised powerful slogans against the oppressive policies of global financial institutions (World Bank, IMF) and the capitalist system. Speakers emphasized the need to protect workers’ rights, improve wages, and wage a united struggle against economic exploitation.

The rally served as a strong reminder of the working class’s determination to resist injustice and fight for a fairer economic system. Participants called for solidarity among all oppressed sections of society to challenge exploitative structures and demand a more equitable future.

Peshawar
In Peshawar, a rally was held from the Railway Station to the Press Club under the banner of the All Pakistan Government Employees Confederation and Workers Union. The rally was led by Syed Ashfaq Bacha, Haji Abdul Munaf, Jahangir Khan Mohmand, Riaz Khan, and Habibullah Umar. Notably, a significant number of women also participated in the rally.

The participants paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. In their speeches, the speakers emphasized that the sacrifices, courage, and determination shown by workers sent a powerful message — that great objectives cannot be achieved without struggle and sacrifice. They stressed the urgent need to revive the same spirit, determination, and class consciousness in today’s era.

The speakers pointed out that while 2 per cent of the world’s elite continue to control the majority of wealth and resources, the working class is forced to live under increasingly dire conditions. They asserted that ending this inequality is only possible by dismantling the capitalist system based on private ownership of the means of production, and replacing it with a system where the working class holds power and labor governs society.

Bannu
Under the banner of the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC), a May Day rally was organized in Bannu, starting from The Struggle’s office and culminating at the New Bus Stand, where it turned into a public gathering. The rally was held to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago and to raise awareness about the pressing issues facing the working class today.

Speakers at the gathering included Ghulam Deyaz Sikandari (Provincial Leader, Labor Union), Riaz Khan (Provincial Chairman, United Teachers Front), Maqbool Zaman Khan (President, All Transport Union), and Comrade Sajid Ayub (PTUDC). In their speeches, they highlighted the exploitation faced by workers due to the privatization of hospitals and educational institutions, rising inflation, and the imperialist policies imposed by the IMF. They also condemned enforced disappearances and increasing state repression. The speakers emphasized the urgent need for unity among workers and youth to confront these injustices and fight for a better future.

 Sialkot – Daska
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) organized a spirited rally in Daska. The rally commenced from Fourah Chowk and culminated at the New Kutchery, where a seminar was held to pay tribute to the martyred workers of Chicago.

Workers and students from various institutions enthusiastically participated in the event, including representatives from the Post Office, WAPDA Hydro Union, TMA, Clerks Association, Municipal Corporation, Red Lawyers, PPLA, and local colleges.

In their speeches, participants emphasized that the sacrifices of the Chicago worker martyrs are a historic debt owed by today’s working class—one that can only be repaid through a socialist revolution. They stressed the urgent need for workers to unite under the red flag and intensify their struggle. The event concluded with the singing of the internationale, workers’ anthem, which echoed powerfully with revolutionary fervor.

Rahimyar Khan
On International Workers’ Day, various rallies were held in Rahim Yar Khan under the joint leadership of the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) and the District Workers Action Committee. Workers from industrial and government sectors participated in these rallies, which aimed to raise awareness about labor rights and solidarity. The rally from Labour Colony was led by Asif Gul and Rana Sajjad. At the Unilever Gate, dismissed workers from Coca-Cola and Unilever joined the procession under the leadership of Syed Zaman and Raja Abdul Saboor. Additionally, a rally at Railway Chowk was led by Zain-ul-Abideen Bhatti, Umair Bhatti, Syed Hasnain Shah, Umair Dahar, and Jam Altaf. Another rally, consisting of employees from Sheikh Zayed Hospital and College, was led by Ali Malik, Imran Arshad, and Khawaja Naeem at City Bridge.

All these rallies converged at Dua Chowk, where they formed a unified procession that proceeded towards the Press Club, where it turned into a large public meeting. The session was jointly hosted by Muhammad Naeem Mahandrah Advocate, Chairman of the District Workers Action Committee, and Haider Chughtai, a Central Leader of PTUDC. The session was presided over by Mirza Muhammad Ameen Khan Advocate, President of the People’s Lawyers Forum District Chapter, with Syed Zaman Advocate serving as the chief guest. The event witnessed speeches from various leaders, including Naeem Mahandrah, Haider Chughtai, Ali Malik, Imran Arshad, Mazhar Saeed Gopang, Khalil Bukhari, Riaz Kharl, Zain Bhatti, Syed Hasnain Shah, Ammar Baloch, Shaukat Ali, Umair Dahar, Umair Bhatti, and several other prominent figures from the labor and student communities.

During the meeting, the speakers emphasized the importance of solidarity and collective struggle to address the socio-economic issues faced by workers. They highlighted the historical significance of the sacrifices made by workers worldwide, drawing inspiration from the workers’ struggles in the past, particularly the Chicago martyrs. The session ended with the presentation of several demands aimed at improving the living conditions of workers, including the end of corporate farming, halting privatization of public hospitals, increasing industrial workers’ pensions, and setting a minimum wage equivalent to the price of one tola of gold. The demands also included the restoration of pensions for government employees, regularization of all contract, ad-hoc, and daily-wage workers, providing free education on a scholarship basis in all educational institutions, and exposing the Zionist atrocities in Palestine. Additionally, participants called for the establishment of new labor colonies for industrial workers in Rahim Yar Khan and the restoration of quality public transport in the city.

The event concluded with Syed Zaman Advocate expressing his gratitude to all the participants for their active involvement and support.

Jampur
On May 1, 2025, International Workers’ Day was enthusiastically observed under the banner of the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC). The event began at 11:00 AM with a gathering at the Municipal Park Jampur gate, where speeches were delivered by Comrade Rauf Lund (PTUDC), Majid Patafi (PTUDC), Allah Bakhsh Baloch (Kissan Kooth), Comrade Socrates, and Comrade Tayyab (RSF).

The speakers paid tribute to the Chicago martyrs while exposing the escalating exploitation under capitalism in Pakistan and worldwide. They strongly condemned privatization, imperialist policies, corporate farming, and anti-peasant measures, declaring the sell-off of national institutions—including health and education—unacceptable.

A highlight of the event was revolutionary poetry and songs by Seraiki poets and renowned singers, which electrified the crowd. The stage was managed by Qasoor Bazdar as stage secretary.

The program concluded with a spirited rally that marched towards Traffic Chowk Jampur. The air echoed with revolutionary slogans:

• “Jo America ka yaar hai, gaddar hai gaddar hai!” (Whoever sides with America is a traitor!)

• “IMF ka jo yaar hai, gaddar hai gaddar hai!” (Whoever supports the IMF is a traitor!)

• “Privatization murdabad! Capitalism murdabad!” (Down with privatization! Down with capitalism!)

• “Jab tak bhook aur nangi rahegi—jang rahegi, jang rahegi!” (As long as hunger and deprivation exist, the struggle will go on!)

• “Kali raat jaave jaave—socialism aave aave!” (The dark night shall pass—socialism will come!)

• “Inqilab! Inqilab!—Socialist Inqilab!” (Revolution! Revolution—Socialist Revolution!)

The rally showcased the unwavering resolve of workers and peasants to fight for a socialist future.

Dadu
On May Day 2025, a passionate rally was organized by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. The rally began at the Highways Labour Hall and made its way to the Dadu Press Club. Workers participating in the rally raised red flags and banners, chanting slogans against capitalist exploitation, inflation, and anti-labor policies.

The rally was addressed by prominent labor leaders including Mohammad Morel Panhwar (Highways Employees Union), Ashiq Ali Zainoor (Dadu Public Forum), Zameer Korijo (WAPDA Hydro Union), Altaf Palh, Inayat Jamali (PTLF), Raja Rafiq Ahmad (Pakistan Paramedical Staff), Ali Akbar Solangi (Agriculture Union), Anwar Panhwar (President PTUDC Sindh), Badruddin Panhwar, Shah Mohammad, and others.

The speakers emphasized that the struggle of the Chicago martyrs continues to inspire the working class. They urged workers to seek solutions to their issues through a socialist revolution, unite under the red flag, and intensify their struggle for justice and rights.

Mirpur Khas
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign, RSF, and The Struggle organized a rally to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. The rally witnessed a large participation from workers as well as the youth. During the rally, speakers honored the great struggle of the Chicago martyrs and highlighted the contemporary issues faced by workers. They discussed in detail the challenges faced by workers today and emphasized the importance of collective action and solidarity in addressing these issues. The rally not only celebrated the sacrifices of the past but also reiterated the ongoing need for workers’ rights and justice in the present.

Shahdadkot
A rally was organized by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) and Shahdadkot Labour Federation to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. The rally began at Koto Moto Chowk and proceeded to the vegetable market in Shahdadkot, drawing enthusiastic participation from workers and laborers.

At the conclusion of the rally, labor leaders including Urs Seelro, Sikandar Seelro, and others addressed the gathering. They highlighted the historical significance of May Day and shed light on the pressing issues faced by the working class.

Nawabshah
A spirited rally was organized by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) and Mazdoor Ittehad Nawabshah to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. The rally began from Sagar Paint House and marched to the Nawabshah Press Club.

Workers participating in the rally carried placards and banners inscribed with slogans against inflation, unemployment, lack of healthcare, and poverty. Through continuous chanting, the participants voiced strong protest against the prevailing economic and social system.

Addressing the rally, Sagar Hanif Lakho, Ejaz Sheikh, Anwar Chandio, Wazeer Rind, and others highlighted the significance of May Day and emphasized that the unity and struggle of the working class is the most urgent need of the time.

Sehwan
A study circle was organized by the Inqilabi Rickshaw Union Sehwan to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago.

Speaking at the session, Sikandar Otho, Badaruddin Panhwar, Ashiq Chandio, and Ghulam Rasool Kalhoro paid red salute to the sacrifices of the Chicago workers and emphasized the importance of learning from their struggle in today’s era.

The speakers stated that the sacrifices of those martyrs are not just historical events but continue to serve as a guiding light for the working class even today, pointing the way toward a socialist revolution.

Khairpur Mirs
A grand rally was organized in remembrance of the Chicago martyrs by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) in collaboration with the Pakistan United Workers Federation. The rally commenced from Khaki Shah Bridge and concluded at Chhatri Chowk.

Workers participating in the rally carried red flags and protest banners, raising passionate slogans against IMF subjugation, anti-labour laws, and capitalist oppression.

Prominent leaders who addressed the rally included Ejaz Abbasi, Mukhtiar Khamesani, Ghalib Khoso, Shah Nawaz Dhoth, Amjad Lashari, Mir Muhammad Pathan, Hashim Siyal, Mithal Sheikh, Ustad Bashir Junejo, and others.

The speakers emphasized that May Day is a symbol of the unity, consciousness, and revolutionary struggle of the working class. They stressed the importance of staying committed to this path in order to bring an end to the exploitative system.

Thari Mirwah
A rally was held in Thari Mir wah to mark International Workers’ Day, organized by the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC), Revolutionary Students Front (RSF), and Watan Dost Mazdoor Federation. The rally began at Naka Chowk and concluded at Shaheed Fazil Raho Chowk, where participants paid tribute to the martyrs of Chicago.

Speeches were delivered by Sharjeel Shar, Naseem Ijaz, Qadeer Shar, Qataal Shar, Nadeem Shar, Ishaq Shar, and Qalandar Bakhsh Mallah. The speakers emphasized that International Workers’ Day serves as a reminder of the great sacrifices and class struggle of workers, and in today’s circumstances, it is crucial for workers to unite and raise their voices once again against capitalist exploitation.

Gulab Leghari
On International Workers’ Day, the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign organized a rally in Ghulab Laghari to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. The rally saw a large participation from workers as well as the youth. During the rally, speakers honored the great struggle of the Chicago martyrs and discussed, in detail, the current challenges faced by workers. They emphasized the need to address these issues through collective efforts and solidarity. The rally served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by workers in the past and underscored the importance of continuing the fight for workers’ rights in the present day.

Ghotki
In Obaro, Ghotki the Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign (PTUDC) organized a short but significant event to commemorate International Workers’ Day. The program was led by Advocate Ayaz Ali Malik and Comrade Mohsin Soomro, who highlighted the importance of workers’ solidarity and resistance against exploitation.

The gathering brought together young activists from diverse ideological backgrounds. Discussions focused on critical issues such as the oppression of the working class under IMF-backed governments, the inherent injustices of capitalism and authoritarian rule, and the urgent need for a disciplined revolutionary organization to challenge these systemic problems.

In a powerful display of commitment, the participants pledged to uphold socialist principles in their fight for workers’ liberation. They vowed to continue resisting economic exploitation and building a movement dedicated to justice and equality for the laboring masses.

Faran Sugar Mills
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, a protest demonstration was held at the gate of Farhan Sugar Mill under the leadership of Ghulam Rasool Thaheem Advocate, General Secretary of the Peoples Workers Union, GM Laghari, and PTUDC leader Sikandar Solangi.

Addressing the protesters, the speakers paid tribute to the great struggle of the martyrs of Chicago and discussed in detail the problems faced by workers today and their possible solutions.

Rawalakot
Workers in Rawalakot marked International Workers’ Day with a massive protest rally organized by the All Employees Confederation. The demonstration brought together trade unions, student organizations, and workers from various sectors, including representatives from the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation, Pakistan Trade Union Defence Campaign, and Peoples Revolutionary Front. The spirited procession began at College Ground and culminated in a public meeting at the District Courts premises, where participants paid tribute to the historic sacrifices of the Chicago Martyrs while denouncing contemporary injustices faced by laborers.

The gathering featured passionate speeches from labor leaders who condemned the government’s violent crackdown on health workers in Lahore and demanded immediate resolution of employees’ grievances across Jammu Kashmir. Speakers including Dr. Khalid Mahmood – Patron-in-Chief of All Employees Confederation, Sardar Khurshid Khan – President of All Employees Confederation, Sardar Imtiaz Khan – President of APCA, Lali Qayyum – Central Secretary General of Technical Employees Association, Altamash Tasaddaq – Leader of Ad-Hoc Workers Movement, Haleem Sajid – Leader of Peoples Revolutionary Front (PRF), Badar Rafiq – Editor of Azam JKNSF, Safia Begum – Representative of Health Employees, Sabia Akhtar – Private Teachers Organization, Yasir Arshad, SM Arif, Talib Bashir, SM Zahid, Mansoor Shafiq, Sardar Arshad Khan, Faiz Ahmed, Sheikh Zulfiqar, Ijaz Shahswar and others  highlighted how decades of hard-won workers’ rights were being systematically eroded through privatization and anti-labor policies. They particularly emphasized how Kashmiri workers had pioneered the struggle for fair wages and working conditions as early as 1865 – twenty-one years before the Chicago movement that established May Day as an international workers’ observance.

As the rally reached its climax, participants renewed their commitment to continue fighting beyond symbolic protests. The air rang with revolutionary slogans as workers pledged to sustain their struggle until all demands were met and a genuine workers’ state was achieved. The event served as both a commemoration of labor’s historic sacrifices and a bold declaration that the movement for workers’ rights remains alive and determined in the face of mounting challenges. “Our fight didn’t begin today, and it won’t end today,” declared one speaker, capturing the enduring spirit of resistance that has characterized the workers’ movement for generations.

Muzaffarabad I
A rally was organized by the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) and the Peoples Revolutionary Front (PRF) to pay tribute to the martyrs of Chicago. Addressing the rally, speakers honored the great struggle of the Chicago martyrs.

Muzaffarabad II
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, a seminar was organized at the Government Post Graduate College for Boys, Muzaffarabad, in collaboration with the Azad Kashmir Colleges Teachers Association (AKCTA) and the Pakistan Trade Union Defense Campaign (PTUDC).

The seminar discussed the historical significance of International Workers’ Day, the challenges faced by the working class, and specifically highlighted the issues of employees, teachers, and college staff in Kashmir. Speakers criticized privatization, wage inequality, and government policies affecting educational institutions, emphasizing the need for organized struggle.

At the conclusion of the seminar, the formal announcement of the Azad Kashmir Colleges Central Progressive and Democratic Panel was made, with elections to be held in the coming days.

Speakers stressed that teachers and employees must strengthen their unity and collective struggle to protect their rights and address their grievances.

Hajira
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day on May 1st, the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) organized a seminar. The event featured participation from students, labor leaders, and political workers who shared their perspectives against the current political and economic system. Speakers shed light on the global exploitation of the working class, the injustices of capitalist systems, and emphasized the need for revolutionary change as an alternative.

Datoat-Shaukat Abad
The Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) and Peoples Revolutionary Front (PRF) organized a rally to honor the martyrs of Chicago. The demonstration saw massive participation from workers and youth.

Addressing the rally, speakers paid tribute to the historic struggle of the Chicago martyrs. They extensively discussed contemporary challenges faced by workers and potential solutions to these issues.

Kotli – Holar
On May 1st (International Workers’ Day), the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF), Peoples Revolutionary Front (PRF), Liberation Front, and PTUDC jointly organized a protest demonstration and public gathering in Holar.

The speakers expressed solidarity with workers worldwide and reaffirmed their commitment to uprooting the capitalist system and continuing the struggle until establishing workers’ rule (Mazdoor Raj) through socialist revolution.

Bagh
The Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) organized a protest rally to mark International Workers’ Day.