Steel plant workers to strike on Thursday

Non-executive employees and contract workers at the steel plant will observe a one-day strike on Thursday as part of a nationwide protest seeking resolution of long-pending issues. Workers’ unions said non-executive staff were facing several unresolved problems and alleged that management had failed to address them despite repeated representations.

The steel plant employs about 9,000 regular workers and a similar number of contract laborers. With a large share of the workforce expected to join the strike, management has prepared alternative arrangements to ensure continuity of essential operations. Earlier, it had appealed to the unions to withdraw the strike, but union leaders reiterated their decision to participate in the nationwide action.

In view of the strike, executives have been directed to work 12-hour shifts. Duties have been scheduled in two shifts, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., with officials urging officers to remain alert, particularly in key departments.

The workers’ demands include withdrawal of orders on production-linked wages, payment of pending wage arrears, and restoration of suspended house rent allowance and earned leave benefits. They have also sought a reduction in electricity charges for township residents, a grant of 15 casual leaves, and an increase in the gratuity ceiling to Rs 25 lakh.

Other demands include the merger of the steel plant with the Steel Authority of India Limited, cancellation of EOI tenders, re-engagement of terminated contract workers, and justice for displaced unemployed persons.