Poor response in Pondy for general strike

Puducherry, Dec 14 (UNI) The nation-wide general strike called by the Central trade unions to protest the 'anti-people and economic policies of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government evoked poor response in the union territory today.

Though autorickshaws and three-wheeler passenger tempos were off the road, buses and taxis were plying as usual.

Most of the banks are not functioning today while government offices and major textile mills are operating with thin attendance.

Most of the schools are also functioning normally.

The Confederation of Puducherry State Government Employees Association is holding a dharna in front of the head post office here while the State Government Employees Central Federation is on a seperate dharna at the Gandhi Thidal.

Security has been intensified in the town in the wake of the proposed rail rokho and road blockade by the Left parties here later in the day.

Security has also been provided to major textile mills and also in all vulnerable areas. The INTUC is not taking part in the general strike.

UNI PAB GM SK DS1205