Road roko by NLC workers; residents stage human chain protest

More than 2,000 contract workers of Neyveli Lignite Corporation and their family members today staged a road roko near here in support of their various demands, including regularisation of services, at Mantharakuppam near Neyveli here.
As the indefinite strike by the contract workers entered the 34th day today, residents of 28 villages near Neyveli formed a seven km-long human chain in support of the workers.
The 'chain', comprising more than 2000 villagers, stretched from Mantharakuppam to Venankeni village in which 18 panchayat presidents also participated, police said.
Talking to reporters, NLC General Manager-HR N Balaji said he pacified the agitating workers and told them the issue would be discussed in the presence of Labour Commissioner Sekar tomorrow, following which they dispersed.

The NLC generated 1950 MW today. Three units were under major overhaul. One 210 MW unit would start generating power tonight, NLC Public Relations Officer Sridhar said, adding, lignite production was also as targeted.
Meanwhile, a meeting of some political parties held last night at Neyveli resolved to hold a mass agitation in front of NLC's corporate office in support of the contract workers on October 9. Representatives of various political parties and trade unions participated.
Former minister and DMK Cuddalore Distrct Secretary, M R K Panneerselvam said they would also stage a demonstration in front of the Collector's office on October 13.