Trinamul tea union to seek wage hike

CBTCMU has circulated a notice to the management of each tea estate in the Terai region 

SNS,  SILIGURI, 19 NOVEMBER 2020 : The Cha Bagan Trinamool Congress Mazdoor Union (CBTCMU) has decided to demand a hike in daily wages for tea workers.

A decision to this effect was taken by members of the CBTCMU affiliated to the INTTUC in a meeting held on 17 November.

CBTCMU members have also adopted a resolution to hold a meeting and stage a demonstration in front of the main gate and tea factory in each tea estate on 23 November.

CBTCMU leader Nirjal Dey has circulated a notice to the management of each tea estate in the Terai region in this regard, it is learnt. Mr Dey mentions that the demonstration would be peaceful. A copy of the notice has also been forwarded to the CCPA for information.

Notably, planters have been expressing reservations over gate meetings and demonstrations over the issue of productivity. "The CBTCMU has decided to stage a demonstration for an hour before the commencement of work in the morning, demanding increment in the daily wages, along with annual increment, subject to introduction of minimum wages: a source said.

The union has also demanded regularization of Provident Fund and gratuity for all workers and immediate updates of the Aadhar Card. Notably, TMC leaders, keeping in mind the upcoming Assembly elections, have planned to reach out to tea workers.

On the otherhand, the state labour department will hold meetings here in the first week of December on many issues, including increment of salary, including arrears for staff and sub-staff in the plantations, sources said.