The MLA is observing fast on the directions of the CPM state leadership
S. Rajendran MLA being escorted from the venue by the police after agitating plantation workers booed him away in Munnar on Friday. (Photo: DC)
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM MLA from Devikulam S Rajendan will begin an indefinite strike in Munnar from Saturday in support of the ongoing women plantation workers’ strike for bonus and hike in wages.
The MLA is observing fast on the directions of the CPM state leadership. Earlier in the day, Rajendran was heckled and forced to leave when he arrived at the agitation site to express his solidarity with the workers. The workers were angry as the legislator had not bothered to visit them for the last six days.
The plantation workers’ strike has left the major political parties and trade unions red faced as the women have accused them of being hand in glove with the company authorities.
The workers have kept the trade unions and political parties at bay all these days and are firm on continuing the agitaion under their own leadership.
Clearly, the women’s agitation has caused huge embarassment for the established trade unions which have all along claimed to be champions of the rights of poor, hapless workers.
With the indefinite fast of the legislator, the CPM is trying to regain the confidence of the workers. Meanwhile, CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has urged the chief minister to resolve the 7 day old strike of plantation workers in Munnar which has badly affected the plantation sector and tourism sector. He said the unilateral decision to cut bonus of workers had triggered the problem and the chief minister should take immediate measures to resolve the issue.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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