AIUTUC calls for unity at mine workers convention in Sandur

A convention of mining workers associated with the Composite Mine Workers Union, which is affiliated to the All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC), was held at the Ambedkar Bhavan in Sandur, Ballari district, recently.

The event was preceded by a rally from the APMC Yard to the convention venue, during which hundreds of mine workers marched with slogans demanding job security and better labour conditions.

The convention pressed for key demands, including continuity of employment for existing mine workers even if contractors change, priority to local candidates in permanent jobs and the enforcement of all statutory labour benefits.

Addressing the convention as the chief speaker, president of the J Composite Mine Workers Union and State president of AIUTUC K. Somashekar said that mine workers generate enormous wealth through their labour but continue to live in distressing conditions.

“Mining companies treat workers as dispensable. Even the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) Limited, despite being a Central government enterprise, is exploiting workers under the guise of contract and outsourced labour. Once a contractor’s tenure ends, workers are left in uncertainty and the NMDC does not guarantee job security in any manner,” he said.

He added that families who lost land and health due to mining operations have still not been provided with permanent employment.

“The State government must enact a law to protect mine workers. But whichever party comes to power, governments stand with corporate interests and not with labour. The new Labour Codes introduced by the Centre aim to suppress workers rights. In such a situation, mine workers must unite and intensify their struggle,” Mr. Somashekar said.

Speaking at the event, AIUTUC State secretary Somashekar Yadgir said that efforts are constantly made by employers and governments to break workers unity through political and social divisions.

“Caste, religion and language are used to derail labour movements. Workers must defeat these divisive tactics and strengthen their unity,” he said.

AIUTUC district secretary Pramod, union secretary Somashekar Gowda and union vice-president A. Devadas also addressed the gathering.

Senior leaders Huligesh, Babu, Santosh, Ambarish, Manjunath and Kotresh were present.

Two resolutions concerning workers issues were passed in the convention and the organisational report on ongoing struggles was tabled.

At the end of the event, a new committee was elected. K. Somashekar was chosen as president, A. Devadas as working president and Pramod as general secretary, along with other office-bearers.