The Kerala government had issued a 'dies-non' warning to government employees, stating that those absent from work without valid reasons will lose one day's salary on the strike day.
This warning came amid a nationwide Bharat Bandh called by trade unions on Thursday against the union government's labour codes.
Normal public life was affected in the state, disrupting transport, banking and government services. The government staff and teachers' organisations in the state affiliated with the Congress have reportedly stayed away from the Bandh.
Meanwhile, staff of state run-Kerala state road transport corporation, private bus operators and auto, taxi drivers have joined the protest causing suspension of public transport in different areas of the state.
Reports also suggested that trade union members backed by the Left at Kochi refinery also joined the strike. Alongside this, shops, markets and colleges were also closed in several places. While essential services like hospitals, medical stores and also pilgrims travelling to Sabarimala and Maramon in Pathanamthitta remained exempted from the strike.
What is a 'Dies-Non' Warning?
The Kerala government stated that any unauthorised absence on Thursday would be treated as a 'dies non' under the Rule 14A of Part I of the Kerala Service Rules (KSR).
The order also directed district collectors, police chiefs, and departmental heads to ensure smooth functioning of offices and to safeguard employees who choose not to participate. Similarly, KSRTC was also instructed to run sufficient services to ensure employees can reach their workplace.
A dies non means a period of unauthorised absence from work, which is considered as "no work, no pay." The term originates from Latin, which means "a day when courts do not sit or carry on business."
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