Mr. Dasgupta told The Hindu later that the meeting came in the backdrop of “biggest nationwide strike” by trade unions on February 28, which sent a clear message registering a strong protest against the policies being pursued by the Congress-led Central government.
According to Mr. Dasgupta, Mr. Mukherjee agreed to hold a meeting with leaders of all trade unions. For the first time unions across the political spectrum, including the Congress-backed Indian National Trade Union Congress joined the strike. Although there are reports that many in the Congress leadership were not happy over the turn of events, Mr. Dasgupta said the government cannot ignore the voice of the people.
Mr. Mukherjee, who is the principal political manager for the UPA government, promised to hold the meeting after the presentation of the budget, Mr. Dasgupta said.