By Shafeeq Alingal, TwoCircles.net
Thiruvananthapuram : After the failure of several rounds of reconciliatory talks, women tea plantation labourers of Munnar, Kerala are considering intensifying their ongoing strike against Kannan Devan Hill Plantation Company. The representatives of ‘Pengal Orumai’, an all-women outfit under which the strike is being staged, told media persons on Tuesday that they would resort to a stronger mode of agitation if the state government continues to remain reluctant about addressing their woes.
Thousands of labourers have been on strike for almost one month demanding hike in minimum daily wages from Rs 232 to Rs 500.
“We are standing for a long pending demand and due justice. If the authorities continue to turn a blind eye towards our demands, we will intensify the strike,” a representative of Pengal Orumai said.
Meanwhile, women labourers are pinning their hopes on an urgent meeting of the Plantation Labour Committee (PLC) called by the State Government. The meeting, scheduled to be held on Tuesday afternoon in Thiruvananthapuram, will hold another round of conciliatory talks between the representatives of various trade union organisations and plantation owners. The trade union organisations are expected to demand a hike of at least up to Rs. 380 per day.
Protests are also being held at plantations in Kollam, Idukki, Kasargod, Wayanadu and Palakkad districts, with labourers going on strike seeking better payment and privileges.