Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 25 November 2023
A delegation from the Andaman Nicobar Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh (ANRKM) met the Hon’ble Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, to advocate for the absorption of contractual employees working for Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works (ALHW) through contractors into the department. These employees, engaged since 1989 through the labor supply of a contractor, have been seeking official assimilation within the establishment.
The delegation highlighted the enduring commitment of these contract workers, emphasising their continuous involvement in regular and perennial nature of work integral to the functioning of ALHW. They referred to the presentation of this matter before the Parliamentary Standing Committee, appealing for a considerate decision in their favour.
Underlining the provision of the Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act of 1970, the delegation stressed the broader welfare of the working class and the viability of resolving the issue in question.
During the meeting, the Hon’ble Minister attentively heard their concerns and assured the delegation of a proactive approach toward finding a resolution. He pledged to deliberate on the matter with officials in New Delhi and assured that the interests of the working class would be upheld while fortifying ALHW.
In a gesture of respect and appreciation, Mr. S. Biju Pillai, the General Secretary of ANRKM, extended a warm welcome to the Hon’ble Minister, presenting him with a shawl and honouring him with a Shank and a momento of Bala Ganapathy. Mr. S Biju Pillai was accompanied by Mr. Vijay Nair, Mr. Jagdish, and Mr. Arogra Das.