MP plea for tea workers

TT, Darjeeling, Dec. 23: BJP MP S.S. Ahluwalia today demanded an inter-ministerial team and an amendment to the Plantation Labour Act, 1951, to look into the problems of tea industry in the state while speaking in the Lok Sabha.

"... Since 2002, around 2,000 workers died because of hunger, malnutrition or illness. Because of the Plantation Labour Act, it is difficult to take the management to court," he said. The MP said the workers are paid less compared to other states. "Till the minimum wage act is implemented, all workers should be classified in the below poverty line category. An inter-ministerial team should be formed. An amendment of the plantation act is also needed," said Ahluwalia. "I appeal that land rights be given to the workers..."

He also highlighted the failure of estate owners to fulfil statutory benefits for workers, like housing and hospitals.