Ten central trade unions called for nationwide strikes on 22 May to protest against the suspension of labour laws by some states during the COVID-19 lockdown period, taking the matter also to the ILO. Moves from unions came soon after eight states announced they would increase the daily working hours through an executive order. 

Protesters' demands include: immediate relief to stranded workers for safe reaching to their homes, food to be made available to all, universal coverage of ration distribution, cash transfer to all unorganised labour forces (registered, unregistered or self employed) and protectiongs for migrant workers.