Chennai: The pan-India strike called by trade unions began today but it was just another working day for most Chennaiites.
Government buses plied as usual and so did trains.
But buses proceeding to Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Karnataka were stopped at the border to prevent any untoward incidents.
In Puducherry, a Tamilnadu State Transport Corporation bus was stoned as the strike was being observed in the Union Territory. The bus, proceeding near Nainar Mandapam, had its front windscreen completely shattered. All shops in Pondy had downed their shutters in response to the strike call.
The two-day strike was called to press a 15-charter demand put forth by 10 central trade unions to the Union government. Unions belonging to various sectors, like banks, transport, health and telecommunication, are participating in the strike that is on right now.
According to the unions they expect 20 crore people to take part in the protest and there would be a massive rally to Parliament House.
The Tamilnadu had warned its staff and teachers from participating in the strike. A note from Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said those on contract will be dismissed and the salaries of permanent staff would be cut for the days they participate in the strike.