Sun Pharma, Ranbaxy medical reps called for talks

The medical reps contend Sun management has been "arbitrarily" transferring them after taking control

The management of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has been asked by the office of the assistant labour commissioner, Maharashtra, to come over for a discussion on October 18 with medical representatives (MRs) of the erstwhile Ranbaxy Laboratories, which it had acquired.

The MRS have various issues on pay and working conditions. "If the matter isn't resolved, it will be sent to the industrial tribunal," an MR told this newspaper.

They contend the Sun management has been "arbitrarily" transferring them after taking control. Sun had announced a $3.2-billion deal in April 2014 to acquire Ranbaxy, and the transaction was concluded last year.

The MRs had taken the company to court on grounds of non-payment of salary, reportedly from May. The high court in Mumbai had issued some orders in this regard but the MRS are not happy. On September 26, they had observed a day's strike. The Indian Medical Association had also written to the management, on the transfers and the salaries.

Sun Pharma did not wish to comment on the matter.