WCL workers' protest in Majri enters fifth day, hunger strike from tomorrow
Workers and contract drivers protesting at Western Coalfields Limited's Majri site for five days will begin a hunger strike, with two workers set to fast from September 13.
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The protest by workers and contract drivers at Western Coalfields Limited's (WCL) Majri site has entered its fifth day. Led by the Maharashtra Navnirman Kamgar Sena, the sit-in remains unresolved even after five days, as the administration has not yet taken any concrete decision on the workers' main demands.
Heavy rain in Majri today left the protest site in a bad state. The entire area was flooded, completely drenching the tent, mattresses and other belongings at the site. Despite this, the drivers and workers did not leave their spot even as they got soaked in the rain, and continued the protest peacefully.
Adding to the trouble, no arrangement for lighting or electricity has been made at the protest site at night. In the darkness, snakes, scorpions, crabs and rats have started roaming the area, increasing the risk to the protesters' lives. With the mattresses soaked, it has also become difficult for the workers to sleep at night. Anger against the administration and WCL management is growing as, instead of resolving the demands, the workers are being denied even basic facilities.
Aman Andhewar, district president of the Maharashtra Navnirman Kamgar Sena, expressed strong displeasure over the management's attitude. He said, "The workers' demands are completely justified. Any attempt to suppress the protest by ignoring them will not be tolerated." He demanded an immediate decision on issues including the workers' pending salaries, correct wage rates, implementation of PF and ESIC, an 8-hour duty shift, reinstatement of workers who were removed from their jobs, and curbing the arbitrary actions of contractors.
With no decision taken on the demands, the protest is now set to turn more aggressive. It has been stated that on September 12, the Maharashtra Navnirman Kamgar Sena will submit an official memorandum to the concerned administration and senior officials, and from September 13, two workers will sit on a fast unto death, or hunger strike. The organisation has issued a clear warning that if the administration does not hold positive talks and find a solution soon, the protest will take an even more intense form.
