The three-day struggle of workers at SLMG Beverages, the Coca-Cola plant in Buxar, concluded on May 13 after positive talks with the company management in the presence of the District Labour Superintendent.
A delegation of the agitating workers was led by CPIML leader and former Dumraon MLA Dr. Ajit Kushwaha. The delegation held discussions with company officials under the mediation of the District Labour Superintendent, Buxar.
In the meeting, various demands of the workers were discussed seriously. Following the talks, the company management gave several important assurances. The management agreed that all workers will be paid the legally fixed minimum wages according to their qualification and nature of work. It also assured that if workers are made to work beyond eight hours, they will be paid double overtime wages as per rules.
The company management also agreed to provide salary slips to all workers. The slips will include full details of wages, EPF, ESI and other deductions. Timely payment of bonus and proper ESI facilities were also assured.
During the talks, it was also decided that no worker who participated in the movement will face victimisation, discrimination, harassment or removal from job.
After the positive talks, the workers returned to work. The workers said that if the company management respects their rights and dignity, they too will contribute to the development of the company with hard work and honesty.
Dr. Ajit Kushwaha said that this positive development became possible because of the unity of workers and their democratic struggle. He appreciated the mediation of the District Labour Superintendent and expressed hope that all legal rights of workers will be ensured in future.
The struggle has shown once again that when workers unite and fight democratically, managements are compelled to recognise their rights. CPI(ML) and RYA have said that the legal rights, dignity and livelihood of workers cannot be left at the mercy of corporate managements, and that every violation of labour rights will be resisted through organised struggle.
