Essel Mining workers demand wage hike

Workers led by the AITUC demonstrated in front of the gate of the Essel Mining at Jurudi in Keonjhar district on Thursday demanding wage hike, extension of retirement age, permanent jobs for those who are working since long days, etc.

Those who spoke to the gathering included AITUC State president Ramakrishna Panda , district general secretary Maheswar Rout and Jilling zonal  secretary KC Samal.

The union leaders gave a seven-day ultimatum for fulfilment of all the demands’ failing which the workers would go on strike for an indefinite period in all the mines of the company.

When contacted to know his views, company senior officer GDPati said the management is paying the workers more than the rate prescribed under Government rules as per a wage agreement signed with the workers’ union which is valid for four years. The operation of the mines has started recently after closure for a long period. However, the management would look into all demands after the mines runs in full swing.