CUDDALORE /PUDUCHERRY: Even as the sixth round of talks between representatives of Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) and Jeeva Contract Labourers Union failed, striking contract workers attempted to block a train at Mandharakuppam, where at least 500 of them were arrested.
The talks between NLC management and the contract labourers union failed as both sides stuck to their stands. The Jeeva Contract Labourers union secretary Venkatesan told Express that the management representatives said they were ready to form a panel to consider their appeal on wage increase.
The trade union leader, however said, since the committee was likely to be bereft of the power to take decisions there was no point in talking to such a panel. Venkatesan said the management was firm in its stand on the regularization of the employees despite the directions from the Supreme Court. The talks were held in the presence of assistant labour commissioner Sivarajan. The strike entered the 15th day on Wednesday.
The next round of talks with the 10 trade unions will be held on September 22.
Meanwhile, in Cuddalore, 500 contract workers were arrested for attempting to block a train at Mandharakuppam. They announced the rail roko and had planned to block the Nagore-Bangalore train on Wednesday morning. Police then arrested them and took them to two marriage halls in Neyveli Township. Police said that about 500 persons were arrested. Members of all the unions of contract workers participated in this protest.