The decision by port and dock workers to go on an indefinite strike from March 9, protesting corporatisation of ports, has been postponed by a week. Following a meeting called by the chief labour commissioner (CLC) here, the strike has been tentatively postponed to March 16. In the intervening period, three additional meetings are scheduled. “On March 9, a meeting is scheduled with the Indian Ports Association; on March 12 with the shipping secretary; and, on March 13 with the CLC,” said S R Apraj, general-secretary, Mumbai Port Trust. If the negotiations are fruitful, there will be no strike on March 16, he added.
The five major federations of the 12 major ports of the country, which had called for the strike, are: All India Port & Dock Workers’ Federation; All India Port & Dock Workers’ Federation; Port, Water Transport Workers’ Federation of India; Dock and Waterfront Workers’ Federation; and Indian National Port & Dock Workers’ Federation.
Corporatisation of ports, a long-pending step to turn 12 major port trusts into companies, were considered before as well. However, port and dock workers, resisted this on various counts, citing the move was against the interest of ports as well as workers.
Dear Reader,
Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.
We, however, have a request.
As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.
Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard.
Digital Editor
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU