25-28, February 2016 Draft 41ST SESSION AITUC

GENERAL SECRETARY REPORT

15-18 DECEMBER, 2015 COIMBATORE TAMILNADU

ALL INDIA TRADE UNION CONGRESS 35-36, D.D.U. Marg, Rouse Avenue, New Delhi-110002 Tel.: 23217320 Fax: 23222427 E-mail: [email protected] 79 Published and Printed by Shri. Gurudas Das Gupta, General Secretary, All India Trade Union Congress, for AITUC, AITUC BHAWAN, 35,36 DDU Marg, Rouse Avenue, New Delhi-110002, Phone: 011 23217320, Fax : 011 23222427, E-mail: [email protected], Printed by Aanklan. Ph. 23382815 80 GENERAL SECRETARY’S REPORT TO THE 41ST CONFERENCE OF AITUC During more than a decade, there has been significant development in the trade union movement of the country. While there have been ups and downs, on the whole, there have been forward movement. The process of building trade union unity has led to the formation of a single platform, all the trade unions had come together on the basis of a charter having ten vital demands of the working masses in September 2009. Under its banner multiple agitation, Satyagraha, local rallies, general strikes, conventions had taken place. The process reached a new height in two day strike in February 2013. Another unforgettable event was the march to Parliament in 2013. The agitation reached a historic height on 2nd September, 2015 with a massive sweep throughout the country. Of late, there has been a negative development. The Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh has moved out of the forum on plea that BJP Government had taken a positive stand with regard to the charter of demands. This is baseless. The withdrawal of BMS by and large has not affected the unity at the grassroot level. The general strike on 2nd September, 2015 was wonderful. Undaunted by the threat of the liberalisation and labour law reforms, police action, corporate aggression, state apparatus colluding with the corporate managements, working people have moved into action in different parts of the country. The mood of the workers has stimulated. During all these years, the contradiction between the interest of the working masses and the policy of the government has sharpened. The Hyderabad Conference took place in 2001. In the years, preceding the Conference, there was eventful developments. The significant development is the rapid implementation of the new economic policy. Nearly four lakh jobs were lost in the public sector. In banking alone, one lakh seventeen thousand employees had opted for voluntary retirement scheme. Even in the service sector, particularly in the IT sector, volume of job was frozen on the plea of recession having set in USA. The 1 BJP Government at that time had aggressively implemented the policy of downsizing. The Indian Railways was asked to abandon the social responsibility. The taskforce of the Planning Commission suggested liberalisation of labour laws to allow hire and fire, enable fixed time employment. The BJP Government’s anti-labour policy was also implemented by the private sector. The State Government followed the suit. Next to downsizing, disinvestment and privatisation was the order of the day. The Tenth Plan Approach Paper also called upon the Government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee to carry forward relentlessly the policy of liberalisation, globalisation and privatisation. Even in the background of massive shift in the economic policy under BJP Government, working class unity could not be achieved. Sponsoring Committee was in place. It was mainly a combination of Left trade unions. Massive national convention was held in Talkatora Stadium. A huge march to Parliament was organised. But the most significant action was the nationwide strike on 11th May, 2000. Mention must be made of the heroic 67 days strike against public sector (BALCO) takeover by the Sterlite private company. During the BJP rule, the intensification of the attack of the corporate, the virulent violation of labour laws, loss of job and shameful connivance of the ruling clique with the corporates bewildered the workers. There was short time passivity. But gradually mood of the workers changed. In 2004 election BJP got defeated. But the UPA failed to get the magic number. The Left got the highest ever Members in Lok Sabha. The Left decided to support Congress for the formation of the government on the basis of a common minimum programme. The 30th Session of AITUC was held in New Delhi from 26th to 30th November, 2005 under the changed political scenario. After one and a half years of its existence, it became clear that the government sought to waiver between its commitment to the people and its allegiance to the framework of economic reform to favour domestic and global capital. While enacting a law for 100 days work for all able bodied persons in the rural areas, it started working through the backdoor to dilute the law for labour to satisfy

2 the whim of the private corporates without any social safeguard. The agenda of labour reform was mischievously linked with the degree of economic growth and also level of investment. After the defeat of the BJP Government, with the coming to power of UPA, the workers’ mood was upbeat. The countrywide protest against the brutal lathi-charge on the striking employees of Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India in Gurgaon was unique. The struggle of the workers led to the victory. All the dismissed employees had to be taken back by the Japanese management. It was a landmark development. During the same period, there was countrywide agitation by the Airports Authority unions against privatisation of the airports. But the most remarkable event was the general strike of September 2005. Despite trade union unity not being achieved, it was a gallant success. During the period, AITUC along with its associates played a remarkable role in mobilising relief for the tsunami victims, more than a crore of rupees was handed over to the Prime Minister of the country. AITUC organised the massive rally of the unorganised workers in November, 2006. A mass petition of one crore working people was handed over to the then Speaker, Lok Sabha, Shri Somnath Chatterjee on the demands of the working people. To add further, mention must be made of the successful general strike on 28th August, 2008. It was also called by the sponsoring committee which did not include the INTUC and BMS. Prior to the strike, there was a massive march to Parliament on 23rd November, 2006. During this period, contract workers having a stimulated mood had gone into action. The other feature was immense hype in the activism of the women workers. During the tenure of the UPA-1, report of the Sixth Pay Commission was published. It was a retrograde report. It recommended the abolition of class IV category of staff. While the 38th Conference of AITUC was held in Delhi, it was during this period that the AITUC was declared by the Labour Department as the third largest trade union of the country having 34 lakh of members. While antagonism among the workers

3 was brewing, the contradiction between the interest of workers, working people and the policy of the government deepened further. The working class struggle got intensified. During the three years ending on December 2008, the economic situation remained grim. The convulsion of global economic crisis had hit India too. In fact, the large public sector of the country had acted as a shield and largely protected India. Even then the turbulence itself made itself felt. Inflation along with recession played havoc. The foreign exchange reserves had declined. The Sensex tumbled. The corporates talked of soft option. Job cut and wage cut were on the agenda. Capitalism nowadays does not seek to maximise profit by producing more goods and commodities expanding their sale. The new strategy is to generate wealth doing financial transactions, making money in the air, visiting speculative transaction. It is this morbidity that had brought the disaster. The journey from Delhi to Trivandrum was eventful. During this period all out unity had taken a shape. A massive convention took place in Mavalankar Hall in Delhi on 14th September, 2009. When the announcement of the all out unity was made, deafening applause greeted the decision. Historic unity was thus created. From 2009 to November, 2012, the trade union activity was inspiring. A joint massive rally to Parliament was organised. On 28th February, 2012, one day strike took place against the policies of the government. Nearly ten crore working people participated in the strike. Even the capitalist press had to admit that the workers were boiling in anger. The Government was unfazed. Therefore, it was decided to take the agitation to a higher pitch. The idea was having two day strike. In a huge convention on 4th September, 2012 attended by thousands of activists held in Talkatora Stadium also with the participation of affiliated and unaffiliated unions. Two phased programme was adopted. A countrywide law violation programme was planned. A march to Parliament was decided. Finally a two day general strike on 20th and 21st February, 2013 was also decided. Since the government was so aggressive pushing

4 forward the neo liberal economic policy, the trade unions having been pushed to the wall had no other alternative but to take on the challenge. The 40th Session of AITUC at Mumbai from 27th to 30th November, 2012 was entirely dedicated to the preparation of the action programme. The conference had turned into a symbol of militant unity. All the three thousand delegates rose in ovation to support the action programme, law violation on 18th and 19th September, 2012, march to Parliament on 20th December, 2012 and two day general strike on 20th and 21st February, 2013. This gave the glorious opportunity to rise and accomplish the historic task of launching the counter-offensive to face the government’s aggression. All the top leaders of the entire trade union movement graced the occasion. Growing unity at the central level had its impact at the grassroot level. It further strengthened the mood of the workers, sporadic struggles broke out in different places of the country. During the period AITUC advanced and expanded. Morale of the workers was upbeat. When the 40th Session of AITUC was held, the country was in the grip of economic crisis. Industrial output had dipped to 0.4 per cent. The index of industrial production had declined to 1.5 per cent, capital goods flow was negative. The consumer goods industry failed to move up. Due to deep recession, employment, wage and service condition of the working people was in peril. Indian currency had faltered. The unabated economic downturn had grave consequences on the life of millions. The two day general strike all over the country was spectacular as never before. A glorious chapter was added to this history of united trade union movement. Government wanted to avoid this strike. A three member cabinet sub-committee was formed. It was headed by A.K. Antony. The Government held out promises but refused to settle any of the ten demands. The stalemate continued. As such the call for two day strike remained unaltered. The Reuters, an international news agency, one day before the strike had circulated a report. “Major trade unions had called for a 5 two day strike from Wednesday as the beleaguered government prepared to present an austerity budget to the parliament and weather corruption scandal in arms deal. Financial sector, mining, transport is likely to be affected by the strike.” The Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry had to say that the two day strike was expected to cause a loss of 150 billion rupees. Delhi was affected. Auto, taxi unions as reported by the media had brought the city to a standstill, while the Government tried to push more buses. Banks were closed. Insurance did not function. Post offices were shut. Supply of oil and gas was disrupted. Petrol pumps dried up. Aviation was also affected. The industrial surrounding of Delhi came to a halt. In Haryana on the first day of the strike, a leading trade union activist of transport, Comrade Narendra Singh, ‘Kaka’ was killed, run over by a bus while he was picketing at a transport depot. The martyrdom further emboldened the workers. Mumbai was rudely affected. Both the ports were closed. The financial sector collapsed. The State Government employees were on strike. Post office and income tax did not work. There was a huge rally in the afternoon. All the metropolitan cities more or less were under the impact of strike. Kolkata and Trivandrum had observed complete strike. So also Patna, Jaipur, Guwahati and Bhubaneswar. Chennai looked desolate. Hyderabad was affected. The main mode of transport buses were off the road in Bangalore. Transport was on strike in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Ranchi was in deadlock. Pondicherry did not work. Goa responded remarkably. Huge procession paraded the streets of Shillong. Punjab was on strike. Bandh evoked response in Shimla. Chhattishgarh was deeply affected. Strike in North East was gallant. Assam was closed. Two day strike had paralysed life in Manipur. Arunachal Pradesh was also rocked. Jammu & Kashmir was not out of the strike. Bhopal saw one of the largest demonstrations of the striking employees on the first day of the strike. It was the largest and widest two day strike. It had shaken the country. Except two or three hill States, the entire country had the tremor. A careful analysis reveals it was a mammoth industrial strike. 6 Shops and establishments were closed. Banks did not work. Insurance was standstill. Surface transport was worst hit. Port and dock were on strike. Power workers did not work. Strike in post office and income tax was complete. In many States, the State Government employees were on strike. The production of oil and distribution was badly affected. Coal industry had grossly faced the impact of strike. Anganwadi, Ashakarmis, mid-day meal workers stopped work. In Maharashtra domestic workers in many places refused to join duty. The 48 hour banking strike had given new dimension to public, private, foreign, cooperative and regional rural banks. were all on strike. A total of 1.4 crore cheques could not be processed. Two day banking strike gave a new dimension to the two day national strike. The General Council of AITUC in its session on 6th to 8th April 2013 assessed the general strike. The Council noted the pioneering role of AITUC. The strike was majestic. It continued for 48 hours. The support of the people was unmistakable. The strike was unparalleled. It was the biggest political action against the economic policy of the government, the attack of the corporates, pampering the greed for profit at the cost of the national intrest. When the country was facing the greatest economic crisis, government was doling out concessions to the foreign investors, also seeking to shift the entire burden of the crisis on the people. Even the Government was pruning social expenditure. Therefore, the two day general strike reflected the anger, indignation, antagonism in the broad sections of the masses against spiralling prices particularly of the food products, against slowdown, job loss, underpayment, unemployment and poverty. The two day general strike on 20th and 21st February, 2013 was a glaring embodiment of all out unity of the working masses enjoying the support of the people. Following the two day there was a spurt in trade union agitation. There was a massive dharna for 48 hours on 15th and 16th April, 2013 for resumption of mining activities in Goa. Transport workers in the country had gone on strike on 7th May, 2013 against this government transport policy. Vizag steel plant workers organised 7 a huge dharna on1st April, 2013 against management’s attempt to malign the two day general strike. On 21st March, 2013, Anganwadi workers and helpers in Assam staged a sit-in strike before the Assembly at Guwahati. Unorganised workers in Andhra Pradesh observed Chalo Assembly on these demands. The May Day of 2013 was observed with more enthusiasm. This was an impact of the trade unions unity. In the meantime, bank men held massive at Jantar Mantar on 29th May, 2013. To give more examples, mention must be made of two month long strike in Philips India, Mohali, Punjab. The strike was a success. The employees of the Bank of Maharashtra initiated a long programme of agitation in defence of their trade union rights. It was concluded by a countrywide strike. There was also an industrial strike in Goa against the anti labour policy of the Government of Goa. Despite the country having historic two day strike, the government did not move. Since the Prime Minister did not respond as such the trade unions decided to have another phase of agitation. A call for the march to Parliament in December was announced. A huge convention was held in Delhi. The convention called for a march to Parliament on December 13, 2013. The working committee took note of the situation in the country in its session on 10th and 11th August, 2013. The Indian economy was in a precarious condition. There was a deep industrial stagnation, slowdown, contraction of production. The consumer price index was skyrocketing. There was free fall of rupee. Employment was disappearing. GDP in the third quarter of 2012-13 was only 1.4 per cent. Agricultural growth was 1.4 per cent. Industry had registered a growth of only 2 per cent. Index of industrial production was negative. Gross domestic saving had gone down. Investment declined. According to human development index, India ranked 106th out of 186 countries. The Government, instead of making heavy investment to turn the wheel of economy, was only seeking to allure foreign funds for the reversal of the crisis. The economic crisis was deep as was never before.

8 BSNL workers had national convention representing 2.5 lakh employees. It called for agitation against government policies and decided to participate in the Parliament march. AIBEA called upon its employees to be ready for a strike against merger of banks. Since the condition of contract workers was highly distressing, AITUC called for agitation. The President of AITUC, Com. Ramendra Kumar, while leading the agitation got arrested, bail was refused and he was sent to jail. During the period unorganised workers in the rural area had developed action for land reform. In the first day of struggle in Bihar, 1500 bighas of land was taken over. In Ludhiana, hosiery workers made a massive march in support of their demands. In Gurgaon, automobile workers held massive protest against the atrocities of the management. In Karnataka Anganwadi workers had a huge rally. In the meantime, preparation was in full swing for the march to Parliament on 12th December, 2013. The call was given by the central unions and also by the independent federation. The slogan was for rupees ten thousand as minimum wage, social security for all, no ceiling on bonus and gratuity, and pension for all, equal pay for equal work, welfare fund for the unorganised, compulsory registration of trade unions. Slogans were also raised against price rise and disinvestment. The political capital of the country was shaken on 12th December, 2013 by an unending human stream marching to Parliament raising slogans, carrying flags throwing a challenge to the political system. It took hours to cross a landmark. Nearly two lakh fifty thousand working people took part in the massive march representing the whole country. The resolution adopted in the rally strongly condemned the pro-rich, pro-MNC and anti- poor policy of the government. A delegation of trade unions met the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and also submitted a memorandum. Similar meeting took place with Mr. Antony, the Defence Minister. One day before the Parliament march, on 11th December, AIBEA held a huge rally in the Parliament Street with

9 nearly one lakh employees in protest against economic policies particularly in relation to banking industry. Countrywide general strike on 2nd September, 2015 was wonderful, unprecedented, may be the biggest ever in the recent period. It was the first political action of the working class against neo-liberal economic policies of the BJP Govt. It was indeed a national event of great dimension. Bourgeoisie press could not ignore the countrywide general strike. According to Hindustan Times, a leading newspaper of the country, 15 crores of working people took part in the strike both organized and unorganized, rural and urban. The event must have its impact on the Govt. According to ASSOCHAM, Rs. 25,000 crores have been lost due to loss of production. Responsibility of this Govt. has to bear. Trade unions negotiated with the Govt. for long, but Govt. did not change its policies. Therefore, workers had to go on strike having wage cut. The country was shaken, economy was affected. Non working population of the country undoubtedly lent its support. Price rise was the issue that moved the masses. Labour reforms, seeking marginalization of the trade union movement had gone deep into the heart of the working masses. General strike was the outcome of united campaign over months. Govt. never wanted strike to take place. It was unwelcome for them. Prime Minister met trade union leaders to avoid the strike. Inter-ministerial committee led by Mr. Arun Jaitely had several round of talks with the Central Trade Union leaders. At the end, Mr. Arun Jaitely appealed for the postponement of this strike. In the 11th hour, Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh had withdrawn from the strike. Effect was marginal. BMS said that Govt. had conceded seven of the 12 demands. It was absolutely baseless. Our stand from the beginning was that there must be concrete acceptance of some of the demands. Govt. had only offered assurance but did not do anything concretely that could lead to rethinking. In many places, rank and file of BMS supported the strike. Despite BMS withdrawing, strike was total in transport in

10 Rajasthan. Strike in defence was 80%. Strike had its impact in Madhya Pradesh and Chhatisgarh. Transport had played a crucial role in strike. Transport strike made the general strike visible, brought normal life to a collapse. Transport strike was wonderful in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Haryana, U.P., Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Assam, Odisha, Pondicherry and Goa. Strike in oil was total in North, East and South India. Even air traffic was affected. Strike was excellent in Road Transport, Banking and Insurance sectors. Strike was commendable in Coal, Telecom, Power, Port & Dock, Post office. Many public sector units all over country had joined the strike. In many states, State Govt. employees joined the strike. In many places, shops market, even school were closed. Strike was almost total in Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Bengal, Tripura, Telangana, Kerala, Goa, Pondicherry, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab. Strike was notable in Tamilnadu, Andhra, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, UP. Strike made its impact in Madhya Pradesh, Chhatisgarh and even in Arunachal Pradesh. In Mumbai, Port and Dock, State Govt. employees, Bank, Insurance, Income Tax, Defence were closed. In Delhi, Auto-Rickshaw, Taxi, Post Office, Bank, Insurance, Defence was closed. Strike was visible in Delhi. The adjoining industrial area was on strike. In Gurgaon, Auto-Mobile industries were closed. Strike in Gurgaon swas total, three lacs workers struck work. Strike by and large was peaceful except West Bengal. Lathicharge was in Assam and Andhra Pradesh. There were arrests in many places. This strike enjoyed all out support of the people. Farmers and agricultural workers have all participated. Strike was the biggest in the recent period. 2nd September 2015 is a historic day. Workers, farmers, rural workers moved the country. There was no denying of the truth

11 that All India Strike had made all out impact. Such a historic strike cannot be allowed to go waste. We have to carry forward relentlessly the struggle that the strike has unleashed. Hundreds and thousands of trade unions, unaffiliated unions as they were to any Central Trade Unions had made the strike memorable.

Economic Situation The present economic model of development administered by the successive governments at the centre has created wealth at the hands of the few leaving a vast section of the marginalised and poor at the bottom of the pyramid. This proves the hollowness of the trickledown theory. While in percentage terms, the number of the people officially defined as poor has come down, the absolute number of poor people has gone up to over 32 crores from 20 crores in 1950. India has the highest number of households without toilets and regular supply of electricity. The country has also biggest sets of communities that do not have access to basic education and healthcare. The neo liberal economic policy pursued in the last two and a half decades has established that Central Government favoured only the private sector in form of concessions and incentives at the cost of common man. In the last ten years, successive governments had written off rupees 36.50 lack crore in customs, excise and other taxes to favour the corporate world. The sum could have funded the national rural employment guarantee scheme for 100 years or could have funded the public distribution system for 31 years. Organised sector employment grew at the rate of 1.20 per cent over a period of 1983 to 1994. It has now declined to negative, minus 0.31 per cent during 1994 to 2005. That higher growth rate brings about higher employment growth has proved to be a myth. The top ten per cent of the population owns about 49 per cent of the wealth of the country whereas ten per cent at the bottom owns only 0.2 per cent. Government has done nothing solve the agricultural crisis in the country. In 1950 agriculture contributed 50 per cent of the GDP. Today it is only 13.90 per cent. While agriculture has declined,

12 manufacturing stagnated at 14 per cent. There is a higher growth rate in the service sector. But permanent job has been sadly missing with no guarantee of minimum wage. Villages are treated as stepchild by the government with only a small allocation of 100 crores in the recent budget but for the smart 100 cities, allotment has been Rs.7,000 crores. The growth rate of output and yield of majority of food commodities decelerated significantly between 1992-93 and 2012-13. On the other hand growth rate of agricultural GDP has declined to 2.92 per cent during the same period. The gross domestic product (GDP) has hits its lowest patch in the last ten years, such is the crisis of the economy. In India the rupee has declined by 4 per cent to around Rs.67 a dollar, a two year low. Foreign institutional investors dumped stock worth of 67000 crores in August this year pulling down the Sensex by over 6.8 per cent, an unprecedented development since 1997. Indian investors have been investing more in foreign countries than in domestic market. This is a serious economic anomaly. There is no more talk of weeding out of corruption or unearthing of black money. Instead of taking measures to recover the bad loan, known as non-performing assets in bank, government is planning to create mechanism to write it off. This will cause havoc to the public sector banks. The national savings rate has dropped down from over 37 per cent six years ago to around 30 per cent. The investment rate has fallen from 38 per cent to 35 per cent. New investment has dropped significantly. Saving rate has become lower because of the high inflation, double digit over last six to seven years. The consumer price index has remained high for a long period of time, about 10 per annum. Between 2004-05 and 2011-12 the decrease in agriculture of employment was more than by ten million. Within the industry the bulk of employment increase was accounted for construction

13 sector by six million. In service sector the increase was 3.6 million. But it is to be noted that the increase in employment was more by casual labour including contract labour as compared to permanent job with total uncertainty of job and income. Indian economy is in deep crisis. Saving has gone down. Investment has declined. Employment growth is negative. Nearly 90 per cent work force, as they are in unorganised sector, suffers of low wage and instability of job. Food inflation is high, growth level is low, poverty is stagnating. Unemployment is menacing. Agriculture is in deep crisis. Food production has fallen. Price rise on the one hand and stagnation on the other has put the economy in a morbid condition. Working people are deeply affected. Youth is facing a bleak and uncertain future.

Banking Sector As a part of financial and economic reform measures, deregulation and liberalisation of the banking sector has become a target of the government. The government is seriously pursuing the policy of banking reform with a view to dilute social orientation of public sector banks with a view to hand over to private corporate and vested interests. Banks in India represent the precious and huge savings of the people. The total deposits of the banks are today more than 90 lakh crores. The social capital must be safeguarded. Similarly, a total loan given by the banks is more 67 lakh crores. The attempt is to privatise the banks and hand over public savings to private hands. The attempt is to make bank loans available to the corporate sector. Recently Cabinet has taken a decision to reduce the government’s capital to 52 per cent which is dangerously near to privatisation. They have also started giving licence to private sector to start new banks. Even Ambani, Birla, AirTel, Vodafone etc. have been given permission to start private banks. AITUC played a leading role in projecting the demand for nationalisation of banks in the sixties. But today the process is sought to be reversed. This is a dangerous move. Simultaneously, bad loans due from the corporate and industrial houses are alarmingly on the increase. It is more than 3 lakh crores today, a shameful loot of people’s money. But due to a 14 nexus no proper measures are being taken to recover the loan. Every year huge amount of loan are being written off, telling upon the health of the banks. Moreover concessions are being extended to the bank defaulters. Bad loans are being restructured and shown as performing loan. Loan to corporate are easily sanctioned but priority sector loan targets are not being achieved. Thus there is a designed attack on public sector banks and social banking. Banking jobs are being privatised and outsourced. Bank employees under the banner of AIEBA and AIBOA are fighting an effective struggle. The struggle has to be carried forward and expanded and converted into a struggle of the common people. AITUC, of course, will play its role.

Political situation Political situation is complex. Riding the anti-Congers wave, BJP captured power with a massive majority in Lok Sabha. Naturally, communalism is on the increase, riots have increased, fundamentalism has gripped the country. Religious conversion is being attempted. Demand is raised to declare India a Hindu state. Saffronisation of education is taking place. People with communal bias are placed in important places of the state machinery. Communal tension is accentuated. Even food menu is dictated. Ban on eatables are being unofficially imposed. Individual freedom is throttled. Political impatience and religious intolerance is being practised. In fact, government is abetting the criminality. India is on the verge of communal strife. Government is ruthlessly following neo liberal economic policy. Labour laws are being changed to benefit the corporates to the great detriment of the working class interest. If all the labour laws as is being planned if enacted by the Parliament, nearly 70 per cent of the workers will be out of the pale of the labour law. Trade union registration will be more difficult. Trade union movement is sought to be marginalised to give a free hand to foreign and domestic industrialists. The contradiction between the government policy and the interest of the people is accentuating. Even then mass action to counteract the attack of the government is not crystallising. 15 Congress is in a bad shape. Left is in the back foot. BJP and its associates are moving ahead caring for none with its communal agenda and neo liberal policies. Individual liberty is affected. Writers and social activists with independent voice are attacked, even murdered. Intolerance and biased views are breeding social convulsion. Government has failed to rein the economic crisis. Investment has not been forthcoming. Despite Prime Minister’s reckless foreign tour, investment from abroad has not reached the shore the country. The downturn of the economy could not be checked by the government. All the talks of the Prime Minister of ‘good days’ has been in vain. The government has proved to be a damned failure during the last one and a half year. There is a need for broadest unity of the people to counteract dismal slide. Really India is on the brink of a grave political and economic crisis. Only counter action of the combined strength of democratic and secular forces can check the disaster.

Organisation Organisationally AITUC has advanced during these years. As the champion of the unity and as the fighter of the rights of the workers, AITUC has emerged as one of the strongest trade unions of the country. Our role for building unity has been appreciated. We have been able to reach new masses. Our membership has increased. New cadres have come. But there is shortcoming. Affiliation fee is not paid regularly. The state organisations have become too much dependent on central programme. Organisation does not match the extent of influence of AITUC. Only limited few are running the organisation. Collective functioning is lacking. There is no serious attempt to draw in younger cadres. There is a tendency to allow continuation in office for more than what is required. Trade Union Record is not subscribed to the extent possible. Payment of subscription fee is also casual. Women cadres are not promoted. The drive that is necessary to expand among the organised particularly in the production oriented sector and unorganised sector is lacking. A regular contact with the Centre is not done. It is as if it is sole responsibility of the centre to remain in touch with states.

16 Financially some of the States are weak. Some of the states are doing better but many more are in the default. The functioning of the all India centre remains to be improved. There is shortage of cadre. Few office bearers are in the Centre, many more are in the respective states. There is a reluctance to come to the centre. Not enough has been done to draw younger cadres. After the Jaipur convention of the young cadres, it was unfortunately not followed up. The office functioning is far from satisfactory. The management of Trade Union Record is faulty. Much more needs to be done to strengthen the central functioning. Casualism has to go. More cohesive functioning of the central team with one or two inducted from the states should be achieved. Contact with the states is not what is desired, expected. Visiting the states by the central leaders needs to be more regular. There can be no satisfaction on the functioning of the secretariat. In future, it should be more planned and fruitful.

Conclusions: The country is facing a danger. Working class is faced the wrath of the government. The task is multidimensional. For the last several years, unity has given new life to the trade union movement. Unity needs to be protected and strengthened. Efforts should be made to draw in BMS. Relation with independent and unaffiliated unions is a matter of crucial importance. Drawing of new cadres with youthful vigour is of immense importance. The struggle that has been continuing over years under the banner of the united forum of the trade unions has to be sharpened. The complete insensitivity of the government needs to be taken note of. It is only counter offensive of the working class that can bring about a change. AITUC must play its role effectively not only in strengthening the unity but also advancing militant trade union action. Not only neo liberalism has to be fought, communalism must be made to retreat. The 12 point charter is the crux of the demand. There is a need to develop the sectional struggles and local movement. AITUC has played its role in mobilising the unorganised. What is needed is more efforts everywhere irrespective of the States. Organising the organised and further

17 expansion is a paramount importance. The trade unions can take the challenge of the government if it has a striking power and ability to strike in the crucial sectors. Government must be able to feel the pinch and impact of the trade union movement if it faces the combined strength to bring the government to difficulties. New situation has been created. Trade union movement has been advancing. Movement has been rising, unity has been strengthened, the process has to be followed up. Move ahead relentlessly to face the government and corporates attack with greater strength and ability is the call of the 41st conference.

18 INTERNATIONAL SITUATION Working Class struggles world over: Situation becoming complex Several political changes have been taking place in different regions of the world arena, the latest being the change of US policies towards Cuba. Earlier the Jasmine Revolution had drawn million of youth in a revolutionary struggle against dictatorial regimes, against unemployment, corruption and poverty, however they could not reach the ultimate goal, having been diverted into something else by the counter forces. The “occupy wall street” movement, of 1% Vs 99%, did exhibit the feelings and frustrations of the common people, however failed to bring the desired social change, and was made to become directionless by several vested interests who did not want such social changes. There have been several such movements in the aftermath of neo-liberal globalisation policies, giving pre-dominance to the MNCs and directed by the world economic Trio, WB-IMF-WTO, following the bankrupt Bretton-Woods system. The current economic turmoil in Greece causing huge reversals to the common people, being ably fought by the working class of Greece, in particular PAME is yet another example of the bankrupt policies. The parallel economy run by the huge speculative capital directly or indirectly jeopardise any organised efforts to change the system. The Conventions and decisions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) are neither ratified by the countries, including some founder/permanent members of ILO nor enforced by many who have ratified.

Effects of embargoes, blockades & sanctions While addressing the 104th Session of the ILO WFTU General Secretary brought out clearly the consequences on the workers and trade union movement of the policies of embargoes, blockades and discriminations imposed by EU, NATO and USA and their allies. “It was proved that the embargoes, blockades and discrimination have nothing to do with democracy and freedom. These words are used as an excuse. They use them hypocritically. In reality, we are talking about competition within the capitalist system, for rivalries

19 and contradiction within the imperialist system, which happen for the control of the markets, the definition of new borders between countries, for new energy pipelines, for the profits of transnational corporations and of the monopolies.” “So, as a result of the imperialist interventions in Iraq, Libya and Syria, thousands of women and children die in the Mediterranean Sea. For all those people, dignified work remains a mere declaration. As a result of the ongoing and long lasting blockade against Cuba, the peoples of the whole world are deprived of the great achievements of the Cuban Revolution in Medicine. As a result of the blockades and the policy of Israel against the Palestinians, the Palestinians still don’t have their own homeland, with East Jerusalem as its capital. As a result of the sanctions against Russia, poor farmers from Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania and elsewhere cannot sell their products, while Russian workers are losing their jobs. As a result of the discrimination against Iran, Venezuela, the peoples in other countries are deprived of cheap oil.

The “Ufa Declaration” of the Trade Union Forum of BRICS Countries in July 2015, “Rapidly progressing neoliberal globalization leads to the destruction of jobs and of the Earth’s ecosystem. In 2014, one percent of the planet’s population owned 48 percent of the entire world’s wealth; by 2016, this “golden One percent” will own more than half thereof. A huge number of workers have no job security and are facing the highest level of inequality within the memory of living generations. Over the past two years, half of all working families have experienced either unemployment or underemployment, and 1.2 billion people live in abject poverty. According to an ILO report, in 2014 there were 207 million unemployed with a forecast of reaching 220 million. This economic model further deepens inequality, weakens democracy and undermines justice for all.

20 We cannot accept that austerity measures, which have failed in Europe and in the United States, are “a way out of the crisis”. Revenues should be used to increase investment in real productive sector, infrastructure projects, health, education, science and technology, research and development, vocational training and skills upgrading: investments should be used to create decent jobs and higher wages. Long-standing, chronic and deepening inequalities are by no means the result of natural laws of economics. They are a production of the policies applied, and they can be overcome if these policies are changed in the interests of the overwhelming majority of citizens. Fundamental rights of trade union representation and collective bargaining are under threat in some states, and subject to direct attacks in others. In a number of countries employers are trying to undermine the right to strike, thus putting in jeopardy this fundamental workers’ achievement.”

The Declaration further stressed: “For the formation of sovereign independence from the bankrupt Bretton Woods system, the BRICS countries can fully exploit reserves of the New Development Bank and the Contingency Reserve Arrangement, whose overall capacity (200 billion dollars) is equal to that of the IMF. Trade unions do support these efforts and recommend that BRICS Governments establish their own Rating agency and a Stock exchange.”

Imperialism exposed The political lessons that Europe offers are: (i) there is an increasing popular discontent against the austerity measures introduced by the ruling classes as a way out of the crisis; (ii) wherever the Left forces played an active role in leading this discontent, the people reposed their faith in them; (iii) wherever the Left was weak, the right-wing parties and consequently the employers gained. The situation re-establish the role of imperialism in promoting fundamentalism, and terrorist organisations. It is by now well established that organisations and groups like Al Qaeda, Taliban,

21 Muslim Brotherhood and Jamat-i-Islami were all once funded by the Western powers, led by the US and its Saudi allies to serve their interests. These Frankensteins created by them are wreaking havoc in the entire region, fanning sectarian violence and dividing the countries on sectarian lines. The intolerance and religious fundamentalism are emerging in the Asian Countries as well. Six years after 2008, and despite stimuli of over $6 trillion worldwide, only the US is in ‘recovery’ mode – and even that is more of an illusion than a reality for workers in a ‘joyless’, often jobless, poverty wage ‘recovery’. Capitalist economists complain that the world economy is in the ‘repair shop’. It does not need repair but a totally different model! Investment is down and a ‘currency war’ has begun. The rise in the dollar against most other currencies at the same time undermines US exports. Trade figures are below the growth figures, the opposite of the effect during the boom.

Fraud and corruption The size of fraud and corruption of capitalism is shown by the 12 global banks that have put aside $105 billion for future fines in US and Europe. This against the background of an explosion of inequality; the number of the world’s billionaires doubled between 2009 and 2014. Oxfam revealed that if the world’s richest man, Carlos Slim of Mexico, spends his fortune at $1 million a day, it would take 200 years to run out!

STRUGGLES WORLDOVER Some of the struggle by the workers, we witnessed, in various parts of the world are enumerated below: These struggles vindicate our conviction that the working class will have to carry on relentless broad-based united struggles.

The Americas & Latin America i) The Buenos Aires Educators Federation (FEB) lifted its strike March 5 following an assembly in which members voted to return to work.

22 ii) Brazilian police began a crackdown on truckers who had begun a strike and blockades two weeks before, arresting protesters and breaking up roadblocks. iii) Drivers in the May 1st Andean Drivers Federation of El Alto, a former suburb of La Paz, Bolivia, and La Paz province’s second largest city, set up pickets and began a hunger strike on March 5.

United States Workers at the Dream Inn in Santa Cruz, California, held a two- day strike February 21-22 to oppose hotel management’s demand for a three-year wage freeze. The proposal also calls for scraping the current health care plan and substituting an inferior one. Members of Unite Here Local 483, have been without a contract since December 2013. In previous agreements, the union has agreed to give up paid vacation, paid holidays and meal benefits.

Texas aluminium refinery lockout nearing five months The 450 workers at the Sherwin Alumina plant near Corpus Christi, Texas, are concluding the fifth month of a lockout after they refused heavy concessions. Management launched the lockout on October 10 after workers rejected cuts in overtime pay, retiree health care benefits, increased premiums and a cut in pay. While dangers undoubtedly exist, the USW left locked-out workers isolated until striking oil workers joined them on picket lines.

Canada Faculty and support workers at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) in Prince George, BC, went on strike last week after waiting in vain for over two weeks for a new proposal from school negotiators. Support staff represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) have joined teachers on the picket line and pledged their support until the strike is resolved.

BC district workers on strike Workers employed by the District of Kitimat in central British

23 Columbia went on strike last week after contract talks broke down between the town and Unifor, the union representing workers.

Malaysia Over 200,000 people on protest for two days In the wake of the stock market crisis in China and a dip in commodity prices, Malaysia saw a mass gathering in the streets of Kuala Lumpur lasting for two days over the last week-end in August. In 2007, there were only about 30,000 participants at the gathering but the number has grown on each protest, and this year an estimated 200,000 people turned up wearing yellow t-shirts.

Egypt i) Egypt’s workers are starting to take action again, after a year when few struggles took place. The past few weeks have seen a number of strikes and protests. President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi’s regime has brought back repressive measures used by former President Hosni Mubarak’s regime. Workers taking industrial action are labelled as terrorists and subject to sackings and imprisonment. The law also imposes censorship, including social media, as well as fines of LE200,000-500,000 on journalists publishing information conflicting with official statements. It originally included prison sentences. Penalties for breaking the law range from one to seven years in prison and/or fines of LE50,000-300,000. ii) Police Strike: But these new laws did not stop low-ranking police officers in Sharqiya province striking on 22nd August, demanding access to police hospitals reserved for higher- ranking officers, overdue bonuses, higher pensions, meals and a promotion process. Hundreds took part in a sit-in at the provincial security headquarters in Zagazig, attempting to storm the building. Six police stations were closed as more police joined the action. While working class and poor people continue to suffer, taxes on the rich and big business have been cut. 5 percent additional income tax on big businesses has been scrapped. 10 percent capital gains tax has been

24 suspended. A cut in income tax from 25 to 22.5 percent to mostly benefit the rich.

Austria Refugee crisis, solidarity and resistance End of August, 71 dead refugees were found in a truck in southern Austria. This provoked national outrage. The situation evoked Rosa Luxemburg’s words: “Usually a corpse is a silent, unhandsome thing, but sometimes dead bodies speak louder than trumpets and shine brighter than torches.” On 31 August, more than 20,000 people marched in Vienna in solidarity with refugees and against the murderous EU border regime.

Collapse of Euro The Greek crisis showed that the euro is doomed to fail – competing capitalist nation states cannot be bound together by a common currency indefinitely. The prolonged economic crisis pushed the different national capitalist classes to start to abandon the illusion of a common EU policy and retreat to the front lines of their own nation states to secure their interests in a more and more vicious battle for profits. ‘Socialism or barbarism’ is becoming a more and more imminent choice.

European Trade Unions Convention in support of Migrants and Refugees As a part of fighting the anti-refugees policies of the EU against racism and xenophobia, the well represented Trade Unions Convention demanded “Stop the Imperialist Interventions of the EU-USA-NATO. No participation of our countries in the imperialist interventions and wars. Abolition of the Dublin Regulations, the Schengen Agreement, FRONTEX and all other oppressive mechanisms of the EU. NO to the oppressive measures of the EU at the frontiers. Reinforcement of staff and infrastructure relevant to rescue, registration, identification, sheltering, feeding, health care and safe transport of the refugees. Creation of decent facilities for receiving and hosting the refugees and migrants.”

25 Finland 30,000 join Helsinki union demonstration: A general strike in Finland last Friday, 18 September, shook the government. Plans to attack trade unions were suspended after almost 30,000 people gathered at the railway station square in Helsinki to demonstrate. Most important was the extensive strike that stopped all transport and much of heavy industry. The massive strike was against: * Overtime Compensation cut by half. * Sunday compensation drops from 100% to 75% * No one should have more than six weeks’ holiday in the public sector (and have 38 days) * No pay for the first day of illness * Two bank holiday days (Epiphany and Ascension Thursday) are days off without pay

Greece The Greek working people and poor have shown this in the historic struggles of the past year against the Memoranda. Greek workers led by PAME proved this with the tremendous result of the referendum on July 5, when 61.3% voted No – a No that reverberated around the whole of Europe and globally, sending the message to the lenders and the ruling classes: “No, we are not afraid of you”. And the Greek people showed this capacity for defiance and struggle again in the new period with new struggles against the third Memorandum and the Govt.’s anti-peoples measures.

Hungary Capitalism is an endless ’state of emergency’ Refugees fear Hungary. Whoever enters EU territory and applies for asylum (which is part of the Dublin III Agreement) has to fear the worst: refugees are kept in cages and far from medical treatment, judicial support or sufficient nutrition. They say they are beaten and robbed by the police. This has been the case for

26 several years now yet Dublin III refers to Hungary as a “secure third state” for refugees. The situation in the refugee camps in Italy, Spain or Greece is a catastrophic. as well. Hungary is not the exception but part of the EU’s refugee-policy. * Some of the other important struggles and solidarity include the following (most of them with WFTU) * National Maritime workers trade unions strike for 2 days and continued for 2 more days in Greece, vigorously. * Peace Rally in Turkey - attacked by terrorists, killing 86 innocent people and injuring 186 others. * Bangladesh, BTUC, organised massive rally against the anti- workers policy /Labour laws & Rules. * Quebec’s Common Front unions hit the streets, launches rotating strikes across Quebec. * Working Women’s International Conference in Cyprus. Plans global plans for working women. * Greek Workers massive Nov. 12 strike against Govt.’s anti- people’s decisions. * USB (Italy) call for No work during public holidays and struggle * USB, ITALY: “There’s a terrible stench of EU” – We fight against” * International Conference of Trade Unions of Telecommunications, IT and call centres, Plan Actions. * Struggle of the workers of Mercedes Benz in Breman. * Solidarity Conference with Palestine – 6 & 7, Dec. 2015 * Strike of the workers of Air-France * 600 Trade Union demonstrate in more than 50 cities in Greece. * Massive Public Rally organised by USB, Italy on 15th Oct. * Rally of Pakistan Labour Federation on Decent Work -7th Oct. 2015.

27 * CONEP, Nepal: In Solidarity with the Initiatives of the Trade Unions for Migrants and Refugees * Kazakhstan: Struggles of Mangistau Oil workers * Solidarity to the struggle of Federation of Teachers of Puerto Rico FMPR * Arrest of the leadership of the Trade Union in ZAVEL Food Industry during 24 hour Strike. * Australia: solidarity with Hutchison ports laid off workers * WFTU Supported to the National General Strike in India on September 2nd 2015 * International solidarity of the WFTU with the working people against racial discrimination in USA * Chile: The mineworkers in Santa Ana on struggle.

28 PART-II In part I of General Secretary’s report major political and economic developments since the last session in November, 2012 have been explained briefly. The second part of the report deals with major events and actions undertaken jointy and individually by AITUC and its unions in the last three years. This part also contains the major event-a historic development of coming together of 11 Central Trade Unions on commonly agreed 12 point demands and joint struggles undertaken, the last being All India General Strike on 2nd September, 2015. This part also includes a brief note on activities of scheme workers and domestic workers undertaken by AITUC and All India Working Women Forum.

MAJOR EVENTS December 2012-2013 Dec. 2012 Joint National Convention of all Central Public Sector Undertakings workers held at Chennai against move of the Govt. to disinvest PSUs. Dec. 2012 Regional PF Commissioner, Delhi found G4S, a private security services company, guilty of not paying full EPF dues of Rs.133 crores of workers employed in Delhi. On all India level the total liability would come to about 1900 crores. AITUC affiliated unions raised and persued the case. 16.12.2012 Employees of 8 northern states level convention in Palledar (Punjab) under the banner of All India State Govt. Employees Confederation. The convention endorsed the decision of CTUs to organize two days general strike on 20-21 February, 2013. 16.12.2012 Joint National Convention level meeting of Road Transport Workers Federation held in Mumbai endorsed the two strike call. 17.12.2012 A joint meeting of leaders of the five recognized

29 federations of Port & Dock workers took place in Mumbai. The meeting endorsed the two days strike action on 20-21 February, 2013. 20.12.2012 Several thousand workers marched to Parliament on 20th December, 2012 against anti labour policies of the Govt. The rally reaffirmed its resolve to go on two days strike on 20-21Febraury, 2013. The call for March to Parliament was given by 11 CTUs including AITUC. In the March members of independent employees federations also participated. This march was organized by workers from Delhi, NCR and neighbouring states. In other states Jail Bharo programme was undertaken. In some states Jail Bharo and demonstration programme was undertaken on 18th and 19th December, 2012. 20.12.2012 Nearly five lakh bankmen observed strike on 20th December, 2012 against banking reforms including privatisation being attempted by the UPA Govt. 3.1.2013 Pre-budget consultation meeting of CTUs with the Union Finance Minister. Joint memorandum of 11 CTUs given to the Finance Minister. 6-7 Jan. 2013 AITUC Working Committee meeting held in Kolkata. The meeting worked out detailed preparation programme for 20-21 February, 2013 general strike. 11.1.2013 AIDEF General Council meeting endorsed strike call. 21.1.2013 Rajasthan Construction Workers Federation held its first conference in Jaipur. 21.1.2013 Huge Bangalore Chalo Rally of Mid Day Meal workers of Karnataka demanding payment of minimum wage and providing social security. 29.1.2013 2000 strong Anganwadi workers thronged Bangalore city demanding Rs.10,000 as minimum 30 wage and social security benefits pending their regularization as State Govt. employees. 1.2.2013 Petroleum Workers held convention in New Delhi in support of All India General Strike Feb. 2013 Workers of 38 private companies including MNCs held convention in Pune in support of two days strike on 20-21 February. 5.2.2013 National Convention of Electricity Workers and employees held in New Delhi in support of the call of 2 days All India strike. 5-7.2.2013 Fourth National Conference of All India Confederation of Building and Construction Workers held at Tirupati. 6.2.2013 Mass dharna of Asha workers in Bangalore for fixation of minimum wage of Rs.10,000/- and granting social security benefits. 10.2.2013 Joint statement by 11 CTUs for preparations for 2 days general strike against Govt’s anti worker policies. The call for strike was given by workers convention of 4th September, 2012. 20-21.2.2013 Overwhelming and enthusiastic response to two days all India general strike. Strike was total in all sectors by all workers. Bandh like situation in some states like Jharkhand and Uttrakhand. Banking and Transport sector worst hit. Attack by police on workers in many states. Our Haryana Roadways leader Com. Narinder Singh martyred in Ambala. CTUs declare that if unions are not engaged in talks more strikes will follow. In Noida workers were brutally lathicharged and later arrested. 19.3.2013 Anganwadi workers of AP march to State Secretariat demanding increase in wages and social security benefits.

31 Mid Day Meal workers of AP also gathered in their hundreds in Hyderabad for their demands. 20.3.2013 All India Transport Workers Coordination Committee met in Chennai and resolved to observe 7th May, 2013 as Nationwide Protest Day. 21.3.2013 Assam State Anganwdi and Sahayika Union observed sit in strike in front of State Assembly demanding their regularization as State Govt. employees. 2.4.2013 Vizag Steel Plant workers organized dharna in front of the plant under united banner of all unions. The dharna was against wrong performance report presented by Director (P). 6-7.4.2013 AITUC General Council meeting at Thiruvananthapuram reviewed the 20-21 February all India Strike. The General Council also discussed further intensification of struggle and strengthening of AITUC by taking up issues at local level. The General Council also stressed preparation of records for membership verification. 15,16.4.13 48 hours dharna by Goa Mining People Front demanding immediate starting of mining operation in Goa. 25.4.2013 Over a thousand mining workers from Goa staged two days dharna at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi to press for restarting of mines in Goa. 22.5.2013 CTUs had meeting with Group of Ministers over their 10 point charter. CTUs sent joint letter to PM the next day expressing disappointment. 23.5.2013 Joint meeting of Coal workers Federations in Ranchi against the move of disinvestment of coal sector, stopping socalled restructuring of CIL, payment of wages to contract workers as per agreement. 32 24.5.2013 Striking workers of Phillips India Ltd. Mohali stage demonstration at Collector’s office pressing for amicable settlement of their demands. 30.5.2013 Delhi Jal Board Employees Union stages demonstration at LG office in Delhi against attempts to privatise water supply in Delhi. 3.6.2013 All India Anganwadi Workers Federation met in Delhi and decided to next conference to be held on 5th to 7th October, 2013 at Bhubaneshwar. June 2013 Thousands of Gram Panchayat workers of Karnataka stage massive demonstration in Bangalore demanding payment of minimum wages. June, 2013 25 workers of Junagarh Agriculture University tried to immolate themselves over non-payment of minimum wages. June, 2013 During the month of June, AP AITUC conducted sectorwise agitation of Civil Supplies, Hamalies, Arogya Mitra Workers and Gas delivery workers. 7.6.2013 Martyr Narender Kaka’s family given Rs.10 lakh cheque by AITUC on the occasion of Roadways Karamchari Union (AITUC) conference in Bhiwani on 7th June, 2013. 8.6.2013 Two contract workers were killed and 10 injured at Brajrajnagar, Odisha in police firing. The contract workers working in Mahanadi Coalfields at Brajrajnagar were demanding payment of wages as per coal workers management agreement of 23.12.2012. 24.6.2013 Joint Convention of Coal workers at Kolkata against anti worker policies of the Govt. and Coal management. 26.6.2013 Flotilla Staff employees of River Navigation Deptt. in Goa under the banner of their union struck work

33 over their demands against victimization and removal of pay anomalies. 26.6.2013 108 days strike of South India Paper Mills Nanjangud, Mysore ended with a settlement. 3.7.2013 Start of indefinite strike by Neyveli Lignite workers against disinvestment. 6.7.2013 AP Building and Construction Workers Union conducted dharnas before the offices of DLCs in the State for Rs.3000/- p.m. pension and other benefits. 8.7.2015 CTUs decide to hold National Convention of workers in Delhi to decide next phase of action programme. The CTUs expressed their displeasure over no response from GOM after their meeting on 22.5.2013. 9.7.2013 Kerala AITUC held march to State Secretariat on the issue of protecting public sector. July, 2013 Kerala AITUC conducted agitation of construction workers, textile workers and Kerala Saw Mill Workers in the month of July, 2013. July Eleven CTUs extend support to striking Neyveli Lignite workers. 16.7.2013 Agriculture workers of Jharkhand staged strike on 16th July, 2013 over their demands. 27.7.2013 AP Working Women Forum organized a seminar in Hyderabad on the subject of working women and challenges before them. 29.7.2013 Joint Convention organized by All India Petroleum Workers Federation, National Federation of Petroleum Workers and Petroleum and Gas Workers Federation of India. The Convention decided to launch vigorous campaign against disinvestment.

34 6.8.2013 National Convention of Workers decides to hold March to Parliament on 10 point charter on 12th December, 2013. 10.8.2013 30 workers killed in coal heap collapse at Kunda Basundhara area coalfield in Odisha. 10-11.8.13 AITUC Working Committee meeting was held in New Delhi to take stock of the political and economic situation in the country and role of working people. It also took decision to hold young workers convention in October in Jaipur. 14.8.2013 Ludhiana Hosiery workers stage protest march against atrocities of local police. 23.8.2013 Three days young trade union leaders education programme held at Elagiri, TN. 25.8.2013 3rd State Conference of Jharkhand Anganwadi workers held at Dumka on 25th August, 2013. The conference gave a call to join 12th December March to Parliament and 13th December, Working women workers demonstration in Delhi. 30.8.2013 AITUC President arrested in false FIR filed by the State administration and coal management. Statewide protest held in Jharkhand. 30.8.2013 Petroleum Workers Union conference held at AITUC Bhawan, New Delhi. 3.9.2013 Automobile workers of Gurgaon held rally and submitted memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner for his intervention for amicable settlement in Napino Auto and other units where workers were on strike. Sept. 2013 Central Govt. sets up 7th Central Pay Commission 4.9.2013 All India Steel Workers Federation meeting held on 4.9.2013 at Bokaro for preparing for 12th December Parliament March and for wage revision.

35 14.9.2015 National Conference of All India Petroleum Workers Federation held on 14.9.2013 resolved to participate in all programmes including March to Parliament as decided by National Convention of Workers. 15.9.2013 Ninth conference of BHEL Employees Federation held on 15-16 September in Jhansi. The conference decided to observe 9th December as Demands Day and participate in 12th December March to Parliament. 25.9.2013 Protest Day observed all over India jointly by all CTUs against anti worker policies of the Govt. Procession, demonstration, dharna held in almost all states. 30.9.2013 Three days trade union class for young trade union leaders conducted by Bangalore District AITUC. 28-30.9.13 General Council meeting of All India Beedi Cigar & Tobacco Workers Federation was held at Akola. 3.10.2013 WFTU- Foundation Day observed in India as International Action Day in Delhi other states by holding rallies and meetings. 5.10.2013 5th all India Conference of Anganwadi Workers Federation held in Bhubaneshwar from 5th to 7th October, 2013. The conference decided to participate in 12th December March to Parliament and 13th December Working Women March in Delhi. 7.10.2013 Demonstration by Bullock Cart workers in Puducherry in front of State Assembly demanding no seizure of carts and building sheds for land diggers and loaders. 19-20.10.13 Young Trade Union leaders All India Meet took place at Jaipur on 19-20 October, 2013. 356 young trade union leaders participated in

36 the meet. The meet was organized to reorient young leaders below 45 years for learning the history of T.U. movement, building the organisation and struggles. 8.11.2013 15th State Conference of Rajasthan State Roadways Employees Union was held on 8-9 November, 2013 in Ajmer. The conference pledged to fight to communal harmony and protection of workers rights. 13.11.2013 About three lac state govt. employees of Haryana observed one day strike on 13th November, 2013 against privatisation, pay scales at Punjab pattern and filling up vacant posts. Dec. 2013 Convention held at Ludhiana by All India Working Women Forum on the role of women in Development in decision making - challenges and opportunities. Dec. 2013 Contract workers of Mahanadi coalfields protest against retrenchment. 10.12.2013 Workers historic march to Parliament for their 10 point charter of demands. United voice of working class raised in Delhi when about 3 lakh workers marched towards Parliament under the banner of 11 Central Trade Unions. 12.12.2013 Massive workers rally of workers before Parliament expressing anger of workers against Govt.’s indifferent attitude over workers 10 point charter. Workers of 11 Central Trade Unions and independent employees federations participated. A memorandum was also submitted to the Prime Minister. 17.12.2013 One day All India Bank employees strike cripples banking operation.

37 28.12.2013 AP Construction workers mass dharna for pension and health scheme.

2014 Jan. 2014 Diamond Jubilee Celebration of United Coal Workers Union celebrated. 6.1.2014 Indefinite strike by Maharashtra Anganwadi workers led by AITUC, CITU and HMS for better working and service conditions. 8.1.2014 Massive Rasta Roko in Mumbai and relay hunger strike in Azad Maidan by Anganwadi workers. 10-11 Jan.14 Two days National Seminar on Work Environment for Women Workers: Issues of Safety & Dignity was organized by All India Working Women Forum in Parliament Annexe New Delhi. 27.1.2014 11th National Conference of All India Cigar and Tobacco Workers Federation was held in Tirunveli, TN. 30.1.2014 Standing Committee (ILC) met in Delhi to decide about agenda for 46th ILC. Feb. 2014 Massive protest rally by Hosiery workers of Ludhiana against non-implementation of labour laws. The rally also condemned the brutal murder of young worker. 9.2.2014 All India Petroleum Workers Federation held a massive convention of workers in Delhi against contract system of labour. Feb. 2014 Thousands of Anganwadi workers staged dharna at Dharna Chowk at Hyderabad demanding better working conditions. Feb., 2014 Over 2500 temporary drivers and conductors of Delhi Transport Corporation held demonstration demanding their regularization.

38 Feb. 2014 Massive demonstration all over Rajasthan against move of the State Govt. to privatise the Rajasthan Roadways. Feb. 2014 Goa bandh over closure of mining industry in Goa after series of demonstrations and public protests over the issue under the banner of Goa Mining Peoples Front. Mining operations in Goa were stopped by the State Govt. and the Supreme Court in September, 2012 resulting in unemployment of thousands of workers and other people connected with it. 7.2.2014 AITUC Working Committee meeting in Delhi to review the new emerging political situation in the country and working class role. 10.2.2014 More than 25000 Anganwadi workers and helpers demonstrated in Bangalore against privatization of ICDS scheme by the Karnataka Govt. 10.2.2014 Thousands of electricity workers of Uttar Pradesh held a massive demonstration at the State Secretariat. The demonstrators were lathicharged. More than 150 leaders and activists framed in police chargesheets. The General Secretary of UP AITUC was also booked in one of the chargesheets. 18.2.2014 Beedi workers of Guna (MP) stage dharna demanding payment of minimum wage. 18.2.2014 Nearly 3 lacs Gramin Dak Sevaks went on strike to press for their demand for inclusion in the purview of 7th Central Pay Commission. 26.2.2014 Punjab Khet Mazdoor Sabha and MNREGA workers staged dharnas at various places in the state demanding for pension and increase of their wage rates.

39 5.3.2014 Protest rally by Gurgaon workers against attacks on trade union rights of workers. 8.3.2014 International Women Day celebrated in Assam and other states. 15.3.2014 TN AITUC – AIBEA held seminar on the issue – Protest against sexual harassment of women at workplace. More than 400 women participated. 16.3.2014 Two plants Toyota Kirloskar Motors at Bidau near Benguluru shut on suspension of 30 employees by the management. March 2014 Workers all over Haryana including Faridabad protested against low minimum wage proposed by the State Govt. 17.3.2014 A contract worker of Neyveli Lignite Corporation was shot dead at point blank in daylight by a CISF constable on which the workers resorted to lightening strike. 18.3.2014 Seven workers asphyxiated to death in a dyeing unit in SIPCOT Industrial area Perundurai in Erode District of Tamilnadu. The workers were not given safety marks who got into ETP for repair and they were not trained for the job. 2.4.2014 Goa Mining Labour Welfare Union (AITUC) held massive protest rally in Panjim denouncing the restarting mining and full wages due to closure of mines. April, 2014 Hosiery workers held rally in Ludhiana (Punjab) for effective labour law implementation. 15.4.2014 Workers of Shri Ram Piston (Bhiwadi, Rajasthan) go on strike from 15th April 2015 against victimization of workers while forming their union. On 24th April, the police, bouncers and company security guards lathicharged the workers who were on tool down strike. 40 workers arrested.

40 22.4.2014 Aluminum employees led by AITUC union staged 5 days long dharna at Balco Nagar Korba over their pending demands and opening up of closed plants. 1st May, 15 May Day celebrated jointly and separately all over the country. 20.5.2014 Gurgaon AITUC unions held protest dharna in front of Mini Secretariat to press for settlement of disputes in some automobile units. 6.6.2014 Pre-budget consultation meeting of Central Trade Unions with Finance Minister. A common memorandum submitted listing out issues concerning workers. 24.6.2014 Central Trade Unions held a meeting with the Union Labour & Employment Minister of the NDA Govt. and apprised him about the pending 12 point charter of demands. Central Trade Unions also requested him to organize a meeting of Central Trade Unions with the Prime Minister. 25.6.2014 Protest jointly organized at Jaipur against privatization of Rajasthan Roadways. 28.6.2014 Separate AP and Telangana State Councils of AITUC formed in a meeting in Hyderabad. June 2014 Regional Seminar on Trade Union Rights held in Dhaka in which AITUC also participated along with 40 leaders from Bangladesh, China, Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Srilanka, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. 4.7.2014 Mass dharnas staged in District hqrs. In Telangana on the issues concerning contract workers. 8.7.2014 Kodamaba Transport Corporation employees under the banner of KTC Drivers and Allied Association (AITUC) held demonstration at Corporation Hqrs

41 on their pending demands of roll back of EPF contribution of 12%, MACP Scheme, payment of installments of pay commission arrears, etc. 17.7.2014 Trade Unions of Gurgaon organized massive solidarity demonstration in support of struggle of automobile workers and submitted a memorandum to the Additional Labour Commissioner. 22.7.2014 Scheme workers of AITUC staged massive Dharna at Parliament demanding payment of minimum wages and granting status of a worker as agreed in 45th ILC. Scheme workers staged similar protest in other states. As per report more than 10 thousand scheme workers of Odisha staged demonstration in front of State Assembly in Bhubaneshwar. In Karnataka 15000 workers joint protest demonstration. Similar reports of massive demonstration from Bihar, Telangana, Manipur, A.P., Maharashtra, Assam. 22.7.2014 State Convention of electricity and employees of Bihar was held at Patna under the banner of Bihar State Electricity Supply Workers Union. The participants also included contract and casual employees besides the regular employees. Convention’s main agenda was against dismantling of State Electricity Board. July 2014 Ludhiana workers stage protest demonstration against Prevention of Damages to Private and Public Property Bill 2014 terming the same against constitutional rights of the working people. 22.7.2014 State Govt. farm workers and agriculture workers organized demonstration in Chennai demanding permancy. 25.7.2014 More than 10,000 industrial workers of Gurgaon

42 from 53 unions observed 9th anniversary of Honda workers oppression as a Solidarity Action Day. 30-31.7.2014 Two days strike by Rajasthan Transport workers against privatization on the joint call of Central Trade Unions. 31.7.2014 Gujarat TUs stage protest demonstration at Vadodara against labour amendments. 30-31.7.14 Two days meeting of All India Textile workers Federation at Puducherry demanding constituting National Wage Board Textile industry. 4.8.2014 Kolkata Taxi Drivers struck work and held demonstration demanding release of arrested union leaders and against police atrocities. 4.8.2014 Statewide dharnas conducted by Hamalis in Telangana 4-6.8.14 Three days protest dharna before Construction Welfare Board Office by Karnataka State Construction workers for expedition disposal of benefit application and further improvement of the benefits. 4-6.8.14 Karnataka State level construction workers staged 3 days protest in front of Labour Deptt. at Bangalore. 18.8.14 AITUC workers held demonstration in front of Bangalore Town Hall. Memorandum by district AITUC contained demands like raising the minimum wage to Rs.15000 and end to contract system of labour. 22.8.2014 Kerala Anganwadi workers stage dharna in front of State Secretariat demanding granting of status of a worker to all scheme workers. 24.8.2014 Seminar on conditions of employment in IT/Its industry was organized at Bangaluru. AITUC and

43 AIBOA representatives participated and addressed the seminar., 30.8.2014 State Level Convention of Telengana outsourced nursing and para medical staff at Hyderabad. The convention was organized by Telengana Medical Employees Union and Telengana Medical Contract Workers Union. Aug. 2014 Bangur Cement Workers mass meeting at Raas (Pali) in Rajasthan. About 2500 workers participated. Shree Cement Mazdoor Union was formed there a month earlier. 31.8.2014 Joint Convention of Coal workers at Nagpur. Charter of demands finalized. August 2014 Constituent of AITUC and other Central Trade Unions held demonstration in Puducherry against labour law amendments and FDI in strategic sectors. Sept. 1, 14 Bihar State Construction Workers staged protest demonstration at Gandhi Maidan Patna demanding increase in benefits. 3.9.2014 All India Steel Workers Federation meeting and mass meeting of Vizag Steel Workers held in Vizag. 8.9.2014 Massive demonstration at Jaipur by Central Trade Unions workers. Police lathicharged the workers and dismantled the tent in spite of the permission already granted. 6,7,8 Sept.14 Haryana Roadways chakka jam for 2 ½ days against privatization of bus routes. 15.9.2014 National Convention of Workers in New Delhi was organized by Central Trade Unions against labour law amendments and other demands. State level conventions planned and All India

44 Protest Day to be observed on 5th December, 2015. 18th Sept.14 Indefinite strike by Kolkata Taxi Operators against harassment by police. Sept. 2014 ICDS and Mid day meal workers convention in Raipur on the demand of raising the honorarium. 22.9.2014 National Convention of Indian Major Ports Workers was held at Kochi against attempts by Govt. to privatise major ports. 30.9.2014 Delhi Municipal workers massive demonstration at Civic Centre Delhi demanding improvement in their service conditions and payment of arrears to already regularized workers. 30.9.2014 Delhi Airport workers demonstrate at Jantar Mantar, Delhi against their bad service conditions. 3.10.2014 WFTU foundation day observed in Delhi and some states as International Action Day. 2.11.2014 Foundation Day of AITUC. 11/12.11.14 Historic strike by 5 lakh tea garden workers for wage increase 27.11.2014 Joint nationwide strike by BSNL workers for revival of BSNL. 22.11.2014 AITUC Working Women Forum of Tamilnadu State was held at Chennai on 22nd November, 2014. Participants were addressed by Justice K. Chandru and educationist Ms. Vasanthi Devi. 30.11.2014 Petroleum workers convention held at Duliajan on 30.11.2014 against disinvestment and contractualisation. More than 2000 delegates and workers participated. 12.11.2014 Bankmen All India Strike on the demand of early settlement of their pending demands.

45 19.11.2014 Central Trade Unions submit memorandum to the new Union Labour Minister listing out 12 demands. Request him to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister. The Central Trade Unions also raised the issue of anti worker labour law amendments. 23.11.2014 S.S. Thiyagrajan Memorial Library inaugurated at TN AITUC conference. 5.12.2014 Massive dharna of workers all over the country to mark All India Protest Day against anti labour policies of the Govt. Protest day call was given by all the Central Trade Unions and workers and employees and federations. Workers of Delhi NCR staged Dharna and demonstrated at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. Similar protest actions were staged in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bihar, Punjab, Chhatisgarh, Karnataka, MP, Odisha, AP, TN, Telangana and other states. 2-5 Dec. 2014 At the call of UFBU, bankmen observed zonewise strikes, Southern zone on 2nd December, Northern Zone on 3rd December, Eastern Zone on 4th December and Western Zone on 5th December. 5.12.2014 Trade Union Coordinating body led by Manipur AITUC observe National Protest Day against anti labour policies of the Govt. 11.12.2014 Kerala State conference of AITUC was inaugurated by the Working President. On the 2nd day of conference, State Planning Board, Vice Chairman delivered a lecture on Planning and Development in the Globalization era. 11.12.2014 National Convention of Central Govt. employees organizations was held in New Delhi which finalized 10 point charter of demands on wage revision, against privatization and ban on fresh recruitments, etc. Programme of action was also decided.

46 11-14.12.14 16th conference of Kerala AITUC 15.12.2014 Massive march to Maharashtra Assembly at Nagpur by Anganwadis and Balwadis of Maharashtra. 18.12.2014 A massive dharna by Joint Committee of the State Transport Sector Undertaking Unions against proposed bill on road Transport & Safety strike call given for March 2015. 18 Dec. 2014 Massive demonstration by transport workers at Jantar Mantar Delhi against the proposed Road Transport and Safety Bill, 2014 featuring unwinding of STUs. 19.12.2014 More than 3000 Gramin Dak Sewaks from different parts of the country staged dharna at Dak Bhawan. They were arrested. They were demanding the implementation of written assurance for appointment of Pay Committee headed by a Supreme Court judge. 26.12.2014 Central Trade Unions deplore the decision of NDA Govt. for issuing ordinances for denationalizing coal sector and hiking FDI limit to 49% in Insurance sector. 27-29 Dec.14 15th Conference of Andhra Pradesh AITUC 28.12.2014 Tamilnadu State Transport workers went on strike for wage revision. The strike was called off after a settlement on 31.12.2014. 31.12.2014 Solidarity demonstration by Tamilnadu workers in support of Tamilandu Transport workers struggle.

2015 Jan., 2015 Street vendors dharna at Jantar Mantar led by National Hawkers Federation for stopping eviction of vendors till rules are framed for their re-settlement as per the Act passed 8 months ago.

47 Jan., 2015 Nirman Kamgar Union held massive dharna of construction workers in Patna demanding granting of notified benefits. Jan., 2015 Professional from IT industry held joint meeting in Delhi against fear of large scale retrenchment. They later demonstrated at Jantar Mantar demanding job security. 6.1.2015 Five days historic strike by 7 lakh coal worker began on 6th January, 2015 against privatization. The strike was called off after two days after assurance from the Govt. This was the first major strike against NDA govt. policy of disinvestment of public sector undertakings. Jan. 2015 CTUs meet the union Labour Minister expressing their anger at the employers efforts at International level to block workers right to strike. CTUs urge LEM to support workers’ right to strike at ILO ensuing meeting. 18.1.2015 3 days National leadership training programme organized at Imphal by National Hawkers Federation and Roadside Vendors Welfare Association, Manipur. 23.1.2015 Telangana Building & Construction workers 1st Conference was held at Hyderabad. The conference demanded increase of Cess from 1 % to 2%, inclusion of workers representative in the Board and increase the compensatory benefits. 26.1.2015 Colourful Protest Rally by scheme workers at Vijayawada 12.2.2015 50000 strong joint rally of Anganwadi workers and helpers at Bangalore demanding more wages and pension and granting status of a worker pending their regularization as State Govt. employees. 23.2.2015 ASHA and Aasha facilitators of Meghalaya boycott

48 polio campaign as a protest against state Govt.’s indifference to their demands of increasing wages. They had earlier also boycotted the programme on 19.1.2015. 26.2.2015 Successful massive dharna and Satyagrah observed in all states against Govt. indifference to workers 12 points charter. The call for nationwide Satygraha was given in which several lakh workers participated. The Central Trade Unions leaders participated in the programme organized by constituents of CTUs. March 2015 5000 Anganwadi workers arrested in Andhra Pradesh while demanding worker status to all scheme workers. 9.3.2015 CTUs meet to review 26th February Satyagrah programme. They also termed the Budget as anti worker and anti people. The specially condemned the speech that both Employees Provident Fund scheme and ESI scheme will be made optional and allowing FDI in strategic sectors. 31. 3.2015 Delhi Municipal sanitation workers went on strike against non-payment of their wages and arrears arising out of regularization. 16. 3.2015 Anganwadi and helpers of Karnataka observed four day strike starting from 16th March against no relief announced in Budget and further curtailment of grant for social sector schemes. March 2015 Hundreds of contract and outsourced workers of AP took out demonstration for minimum wage of Rs.15000/- p.m. They were stopped on way to AP Assembly and lathicharged by the police in which several workers and AITUC State leaders were hurt. March 2015 Three struggles in Tamilnadu by State AITUC.

49 Demonstration against mysterious death of young Odisha women worker in RASI Textiles Salem, demonstration to protect beedi industry in Tiruneveli and Vellore and demonstration demanding action against those responsible in Sipcol accident. 23.3.2015 Telengana Health Workers Unions organized hunger strike demanding fixing of minimum wage of Rs.15000/- p.m. 30.3.2015 National Council of All India Beedi Cigar and Tobacco Workers Federation in its meeting held at Mahabalipuram decided to start agitation on their demands. 6.4.2015 Rajasthan Transport Workers protested on the day the Bill was introduced in Assembly regarding privatisation of State Transport Undertaking. 9.4.2015 Day long strike by NMDC workers against Govt. move to disinvestment National Mineral Development Corporation. 10.4.2015 Market Yard Hamalis Dharna in Hyderabad demanding withdrawal of G.O. on decreased rates. 28.4.2015 Massive Rally of Central govt. employees including Railways held at Parliament Street, New Delhi against govt. apathy towards their pending demands. The Rally gave the call for indefinite strike from 23rd November, 2015. 28.4.2015 Half naked pensioners with begging bowls sat on dharna at Jantar Mantar demanding raising of their pension. 15.4.2015 The first conference of Nirman Mazdoor Sangathan Haryana was held at Bhiwani on 15th April, 2015. The union was registered a month ago. Another union of construction workers was also registered at Bhuna (Fatehabad) recently thus starting AITUC presence in construction industry in Haryana. 50 21-22.4.15 Two days complete strike of BSNL employees was observed on the issue of revival of BSNL. 12-13.4.15 2nd State Conference of construction workrs of Karnataka was held at Tumkur. 30.4.2015 Successful Road Transport workers strike on 30th April against Road Transport & Safety Bill 2015. Private taxis and three wheelers in many places joined the strike. 54 State Road Transport Undertaking employees participated in the strike. 1.5.2015 May Day 2015 observed all over India with ‘workers pledge to unite, protest and fight for workers rights. 6.5.2015 Indefinite strike of Andhra Pradesh and Telengana Municipal workers concluded with settlement of wage increase. 14.5.2015 AITUC observed protest day on 14th May against Land Acquisition Bill, 2015 brought by NDA Govt. 15.5.2015 Protest at ESI Hospital Ludhiana and all ESI Hospitals employees unions of Faridabad organized dharna protesting against the proposal of the central govt. to amend ESIC Act allowing option to workers to opt out of ESI scheme. 26.5.2015 National Protest Day on 26th May observed on the call of Samyukat Morcha of Anganwadi Employees Federation protesting against drastic cut in financial allocation by the Govt. in social sector including ICDS. Morcha comprised of federations belonging to AITUC, CITU, BMS, HMS and INTUC. 26.5.2015 National Convention of Workers gives call for All India General Strike on 2nd September 2015 on govt. indifference towards 12 point charter of demands. 27.5.2015 Joint meeting of Road Transport Workers

51 organisations met and decided to support 2nd September strike. 1,2 June,15 False FIRs filed against President and General Secretary of Nivara Bandhakam Kamgar Sangathana in Sangli and Sindhu Durg Districts of Maharashtra for their exposing the fraud being done with construction workers welfare fund by authorities. 6.6.2015 9th State Conference of Meghalaya AITUC held at Shillong with huge participation of women workers. 6-7 June, 15 WFTU Presidential Council met at Geneva in which AITUC representative also participated. 27-29.6.2015 AITUC General Council meeting at Patiala reviewed the joint actions undertaken and for preparing for General Strike on 2nd September, 2015. It also decided to hold 41st AITUC Conference on Coimbatore in December, 2015. 5.7.2015 Municipal Workers of Telengana State went on strike from 5th July, 2015 on their demand of wage increase. The strike was called off with about 47% increase in wages. 5.7.2015 Working Women Forum held a meeting at Vijayawada and endorsed 2nd September General Strike. 8-10 July 15 BRICS Trade Union Forum leaders met at UFA (Russian Federation) from 8th to 10th July, 2015. AITUC Working President and Deputy General Secretary of WFTU participated in the meeting which adopted a declaration. 10.7.2015 Massive demonstration of retired employees and pensioners of Rajasthan Roadways held in Jaipur against delay in payment of retriral dues and pensions and also against privatisation of Rajasthan Roadways.

52 10.7.2015 16 days glorious struggle including 8 days strike by AP Municipal workers. The struggle ended with a settlement raising the minimum wage from Rs.8300 to Rs.11000 per month and payment of wages for the strike period. 11.7.2015 National Convention of Coal Workers at Nagpur which endorsed the call of 2nd September General Strike. 12.7.2015 Preparations for 41st Session of AITUC to be held at Coimbatore from 15th December 2015 began with a meeting of AITUC unions Presidents and General Secretaries at Thiruchi. 13.7.2015 1st Conference of Odisha Nirman Shramik Sangha held at Bhubaneshwar which endorsed the decision of 2nd September All India General Strike. 15.7.2015 All India Defence Employees Federation in its Executive Committee meeting in Kolkata endorsed the call of strike on 2nd September General Strike. 17.7.2015 State level convention of general insurance employees at Mumbai expressing indignation at passing of Insurance Laws (Amendments) Bill 2015 and for creation of a single General Insurance Corporation. July-August Joint Conventions held in various states for pre- 2015 paring for All India General Strike on 2nd September, 2015. 19 July 2015 Meeting of CTUs with the Prime Minister on 19th July, prior to the meeting with PM, the Inter- Ministerial Committee comprising of 5 Ministers met CTUs on 12 point charter of demands. 20-21 July 15 46th Indian Labour Conference held on 20-21 July 2015. Conference Committees formed on social security, implementation of recommendation of 43rd, 44th and 45th ILC removal of ceilings on

53 payment and eligibility ceilings on payment of Bonus, Labour Law Amendments and Employment and Employability. 24.7.2015 Joint National Convention of Central Public Sector Undertakings Workers held in Bangalore which endorsed the call of 2nd September All India General Strike. 26.7.2015 State level workshop of Nirman Kamgar Federation held in Patna to prepare for 2nd September Strike and Parliament March of Construction workers on 29th September, 2015. 27.7.2015 Inauguration of Reception Committee office at Coimbatore for 41st Session of AITUC. 3.8.2015 Govt. Printing Press Employees held protest demonstration on 3.8.2015 in Goa on payment of pending over time and other statutory dues. August 2015 WFTU Secretariat supports the National General Strike on 2nd September called by CTUs. 4.8.2015 All India Petroleum Workers Federation held a meeting on 4th August in New Delhi to endorse the 2nd September strike call and against disinvestment of Oil sector PSUs. 4.8.2015 More than 500 Oil workers staged dharna in Duliajan (Assam) protesting against disinvestment of Oil PSUs. 4.8.2015 Massive convention of State Road Transport workers in Mavlankar Hall, New Delhi endorsed call for all India Strike on 2nd September strike and for withdrawal of Road Transport & Safety Bill. 5.8.2015 Notice issued to all affiliated unions about holding of 41st Session of AITUC at Coimbatore from 15th to 18th December, 2015. 9.8.2015 8 th Annual General Conference of Assam

54 Establishment and Domestic workers held in Guwahati. 20.8.2015 Kerala State Convention of Working Women Forum was held at Ernakulam on the issues like equal pay for equal work and against anti worker labour law amendments. 26-27.8.2015 Committee of Ministers had two meetings with CTUs and appealed for calling off the 2nd September strike. 28.8.2015 CTUs met to reiterate their decision of strike. BMS wanted to withdraw from the strike. 2.9.2015 The successful All India General Strike 2nd September 2015 with participation of about 150 million workers on their 12 point charter of demands. Large scale participation by unorganized sector workers. The strike was specially spectacular in road transport, banking, insurance, coal and port and dock, oil and automobile sectors. 5.9.2015 Continuous dharna by KSRTC activists in Bengaluru to press for their demands of holding referendum for bargaining agent and stopping victimization. 10.9.2015 Telangana SRTC employees state level convention of lady conductors at Hyderabad. 18th Sep. 15 Balco unions start agitation against Balco management’s notice for closure of sheet rolling shop, foundry and workshop. Unions held demonstration in state capital Raipur. 29.9.2015 Construction workers dharna at Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street, New Delhi demanding strict implementation of Acts with regard to service conditions and benefits to construction workers as in the two Acts relating to construction workers.

55 30.9.2015 Central Trade Unions met in New Delhi on 30th September and reviewed in details the 2nd September general strike. They stressed continuation of discussions between the Central Govt. and unions. Acts of victimization and promulgation of ESMA by some states were condemned. They will meet again to chalk out next course of action. CTUs also condemned closure of main plants by Balco management. 3.10.2015 Foundation Day of WFTU observed in major cities as International Action Day. In Delhi joint rally and meeting held. 14.10.2015 Kerala Plantation stir called off with settlement of minimum wage increase for workers working in tea, coffee and rubber gardens.

COMING TOGETHER OF CENTRAL TRADE UNIONS OVER COMMONLY AGREED DEMANDS AND JOINT ACTIONS UNDERTAKEN AT NATIONAL LEVEL – A HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT 14.7.2009 All the Central Trade Unions met at Delhi and decided to forge unity together against continuous rising prices, job losses, rampant violation of labour laws, disinvestment, issues which are causing serious concern to workers. The meeting decided to hold National Convention of workers on 14.9.2009 at Delhi to chalk out action programme. Another meeting was held on 6.8.2009. 14.9.2009 Historic National Convention of all Central Trade Unions held on 14.9.2009 at Delhi. T.U. unity forged. The National Convention decides to launch agitation against rising prices, job losses etc. 17.9.2009 A delegation of Central Trade Unions leaders met Prime Minister on 17.9.2009 & submitted

56 a Memorandum on the demands finalized in the Convention on 14.9.2009. 28.10.2009 All India Protest Day on 28.10.2009 by trade unions all over the country on 5-point charter of common demands was a Grand success throughout the country. 16.12.2009 The Central Trade Unions gave call for Satyagrah/ Jail Bharo on 5.3.2010 in support of their common demands and called upon working class to join in lakhs.

2010 14.1.2010 CTUs present common proposals to Finance Minister in Pre-Budget consultations demanding curb on price rise, massive investment in Agriculture sector, Land reforms and social security to Anganwadi, Mid Day meal, and Asha Karmi workers etc. 5.3.2010 More than 10 lakhs workers all over country participated in Satyagrah/Jail Bharo on the call of all the CTUs to press for the acceptance of 5-point charter of demands. Lakhs were arrested all over the country. 13.4.2010 The Central Trade Unions met and decided to convene a National Convention in July 2010 to intensify stir. 15.7.2010 National Convention of all Central Trade Unions including Independent Federations met in Mavlankar Hall, Delhi. For the first time since Independence all CTUs and Independent Federation call for All India Strike on 7.9.2010 preceded by State Industry based conventions, campaigns etc. in support of 5-point charter. 7.9.2010 Millions of workers participated in Nationwide historic strike impacting almost every branch of

57 economic activity. The CTUs greeted the working people on their magnificent and overwhelming response to strike and called upon them to prepare for next phase of struggle. 5.10.2010 All the Central Trade Unions in the country met on 5.10.2010 and reviewed 7th September 2010 strike and warmly congratulated the millions of workers who participated in it and noted that Govt. continued to be indifferent to workers concerns. The meeting resolved to organize March to Parliament on 23.2.2011. 8.12.2010 A meeting of the leading T.U. Comrades was held in N.R. Railway office on preparation for the March to Parliament on 23.2.2011.

2011 23.2.2011 Lakhs of workers participated in the March to Parliament on 23.2.2011 from different parts of the country including remote areas to protest against Govt.’s neo-liberal economic policies. The March was mammoth, sea of humanity, it seemed marchers had laid siege of Delhi city. A memorable T.U. event in recent times. Leaders met speaker of Lok Sabha & submitted a memorandum to her. 29.5.2011 Central Trade Unions in a meeting called upon working class to observe 23.6.2011 as protest day against price hike of Petroleum products. 7.7.2011 CTUs met and resolved to march forward unitedly to sectoral struggles and massive conventions. 7.9.2011 A massive National Convention of Trade Unions decide to stage throughout the country Satyagrah/ Jail Bharo/Mass Squatting on 8.11.2011 in support of their demands. 8.11.2011 Massive response to the call of CTUs of Jail Bharo/

58 Stayagrah/Mass Squatting on 8.11.2011. Both organized and unorganized workers participated in lakhs in all States. Significant participation by women workers. Dec. 2011 The CTUs congratulating lakhs of workers who participated in Jail Bharo/Stayagrah/Mass Squatting and called upon them to intensify the stir and participate in full strength in All India Strike on 28.2.2012.

2012 22.2.2012 CTUs strongly condemn the murderous assault on trade union leaders in West Bengal 26.4.2012 All the CTUs meet and decide to intensify the struggle on common demands considering Govts negative attitude. May 2012 The CTUs support bank employees struggle against closure of Rural branches 11.7.2012 The CTUs in a meeting called upon workmen to intensify the united battle by resorting to all forms of agitations holding protest demonstrations, rallies etc. and participate in National Convention at Delhi in Talkatora Stadium on 4.9.2012 where decision of intensification will be taken. 22.8.2012 Central Trade Unions demand end to victimization of Maruti Suzuki workers by the management. 4.9.2012 The National Convention of Trade Unions held in Talkatora Stadium and attended by nearly 5000 delegates resolved to launch 2 day strike on 20-21 February 2013, preceded by State/Sector level conventions, Satyagrah/Jail Bharo on 18-19 December 2012 and March to Parliament on 20- 12-2012 on common demands. 18/19.12.2012 Workers all over the country in various states

59 organized Satyagraha/Jail Bharo to express their protest over Govt. inaction over their 1- point charter of demands. 20.12.2012 At the call of CTUs several thousands workers March to Parliament on 20th December, 2012 against anti labour polices of the Govt. and reaffirmed to go on two days strike on 20-21 February, 2013.

2013 3.1.2013 CTUs jointly submit memorandum to the Finance Minister in a meeting held on pre-budget consultations. 20/21-2-2013 Two days all India General Strike observed at the call of CTUs. Unprecedented response for strike over 10 point charter. 23.3.2013 CTUs write to Prime Minister appreciating his expressing concern over 10 point charter while addressing 45th ILC on 17.5.2013 express disappointment over the discussions held on the issues with Group of Ministers. 22.5.2013 CTUs meet Group of Ministers over 10 point charter. 6.8.2013 National Convention of Workers held in Mavlankar Hall, New Delhi expressed concern over inaction of UPA govt. over 10 point charter. The Convention called for March to Parliament on 12th December, 2013. 25.9.2013 United All India Protest Day by several thousand workers over Govt. apathy towards their demands.

2014 June 2014 Finance Minister’s pre-budget consultation with CTUs, CTUs submit common memorandum on job creation, minimum wages, etc.

60 17.8. 2014 Joint memorandum by CTUs to the Prime Minister through Labour & Employment Minister. 15.9.2014 National Convention of workers against unilateral move of the new govt. to amend about laws in favour of employers, FDI in strategic sectors and 10 point charter. 19.11.2014 CTUs memorandum to the new Labour & Employment Minister on Govt. inaction over 10- point charter and amendment of labour laws 5.12.2014 On the call of CTUs thousands of workers observed All India Protest Day on 5th December against anti worker labour law amendments. Massive Day long dharna at Jantar Mantar by NCR workers

2015 18.2.2015 CTUs meeting on Right to strike. Resolution adopted and submitted to Labour & Employment Minister. 26.2.2015 Nationwide Satyagraha on the call given by CTUs against Govt. anti labour policies and in support of 12 point charter. Several thousand workers court arrest. 9.3.2015 CTUs in a meeting issued joint statement against anti worker and anti people provisions of Unit Budget 2015-16. CTUs decide to char out higher form of action programme. 9.4.2015 Meeting of CTUs decide to launch direct action including strike against anti labour and pro- corporate policies of the present Govt. The date of direct action will be decided in the National Convention of Workers to be held in Delhi on 26th May, 2015, the day this Govt. completes one year. 15.5.2015 Meeting of CTUs with Labour Minister, Petroleum Minister and Power Minister over 10 point charter.

61 The Ministers assured that they will apprise the PM about the discussions. The CTUs pointed out that two issues – labour law amendments and FDI in strategic sectors have been added to 10 point charter. 25.5.2015 Meeting of CTUs to decide about the date of strike. In the meanwhile the Govt. has constituted 5 Ministers IMG to consider issues raised by CTUs. The Inter Ministerial Group (IMG) comprises of the Finance Minister, Minister of State (IC) Ministry of Labour & Employment, Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Minister of State (IC) Ministry of Power, Coal and Minister of State in PMO. 26.5. 2015 National Convention of Workers held on 26th May, 2015 against attack on workers trade union rights, labour law amendments, fair minimum wage, against contract system of labour and other demands. The convention gave a call for All India General Strike on 2nd September, 2015. 19.5.2015 Inter Ministerial Group, the CTUs constituted by NDA Govt. had the first meeting the Central Trade Unions on 19th May, 2015 on 12 point charter of demands. The Central Trade Unions wanted Govt. response on the demands as these have been explained two times with the Labour Minister, Govt. of India. But Group of Ministers led by shri Arun Jaitely wanted Central Trade Unions to explain the demands. The Central Trade Unions explained the demands for about 2.5 hours. There was no specific response from GoM. Mr. Jaitely stated that GoM will meet the Central Trade Unions again. The Central Trade Unions left for meeting with PM at 6:00 p.m. 19.5.2015 After meeting with GoM had a meeting with the

62 Prime Minister. The PM only listened to Central Trade Unions. The main stress of Central Trade Unions was on labour law amendments, Minimum Wage, Contract System of Labour and status of scheme workers. The PM only stated that Central Trade Unions will be consulted before any change in labour laws are brought. Finance Minister, Labour Minister and other three Ministers of GoM team were present in the meeting. 20-21 July 15 The Central Trade Unions took common stand on issues in 46th ILC meeting which was inaugurated by the PM on 20th July, 2015. The PM did not make any commitment on 12 points charter and only reiterated that the Govt. will consult the Central Trade Unions and GoM will have discussions with Central Trade Unions. July-Aug.15 Joint Conventions held in almost all states and sectors for preparations of 2nd September All India General Strike. BMS also participated in the conventions and campaign. 26-27.8.2015 Group of Ministers had two days meeting with Central Trade Unions on 26th and 27th August 2015 in continuation of earlier meeting on 19th July, 2015. In the meeting the Govt. stated that it was seriously considering amendments to Minimum Wage to provide for National Minimum Wage for three categories of states. The Govt. was also considering raising of calculation and eligibility ceilings under Payment of Bonus Act. Contract Labour Act will be amended to provide for deploying labour through registered staffing agencies but it is not yet ready for giving same wages to contract workers for same nature of work. Labour law amendments will be done through tripartite consultations which are in progress, FDI in Railways and Defence is necessary. The Finance

63 Minister appealed to Central Trade Unions to not to go for 2nd September strike. Central Trade Unions except BMS did not find the discussions useful and apprised the GoM about their feelings. BMS told the press after the meeting that it is in favour of giving more time to the Govt. 28.8.2015 Central Trade Unions had a meeting on 28th August in which BMS pleaded for deferring the strike to which other Central Trade Unions did not agree. It was clear after 28th August 2015 that BMS will opt out of the strike. 30.8.2015 Central Trade Unions except BMS in their press conference made it clear that 2nd September strike stood as the Govt. has not given any concrete assurance to resolve any of the demands. BMS sent letters to its affiliates to withdraw notices. However, Central Trade Unions in the press conference appealed for BMS to join the strike. 2.9.2015 The unprecedented strike took place on 2nd September 2015. As per press reports over 150 million workers participated in the All India Strike. Bandh like situation prevailed in many states. Details about the strike and why it was widespread are given in the report of the General Secretary. 30.9.2015 Central Trade Unions except BMS met on 30.9.2015 to review the strike action. It also resolved to write to the Govt. to continue the discussions on 12 points as otherwise the struggle will further be intensified.

64 SCHEME WORKERS The women workers working under various schemes are very large in number. The Govt. of India and the various state govts. introduce different schemes at various points of time and engaged women for the implementation of these schemes using them and cheap labour. They are not considered the workers and not paid any wages but only honorarium or incentive which is very minimal. The total number of women in various schemes in India amount to around 1 crore., AITUC has taken up their issues long back and was fighting for their just cause to get them recognized as ‘workers’ and for a decent wage and social security benefits. It is with the efforts of the trade unions, the agenda of the scheme workers was included in the 45th Indian Labour Conference (ILC) in the year 2013. The 45th ILC discussed the agenda and made recommendations to give a ‘worker’ status to all the scheme workers. But, inspite of the recommendations, Govt. of India is totally neglecting the issue and the department has given a dissent note. But, inspite of it, it is of paramount importance that any worker working for the fulfillment of a responsibility assigned by govt. institution need be recognized as a worker govt. employee and the wages and social security benefits be applicable.

ICDS, Anganwadi workers It is about thirty years that AITUC is organizing the Anganwadi workers and helpers. When the scheme was started in 1975 they were paid a pittance of Rs.150/- p.m. It is with our concerted efforts and continuous militant struggles by our women workers that now a payment of Rs.3000/- to workers and Rs.1500/- for helpers from the Central Govt. is achieved. But still there is a lot to be achieved. All the State Govts., who add additional work to the Anganwadi workers, have to pay them from their exchequer and the worker and helper has to get a minimum wage of Rs.15000/- and terminal benefits including a pension of Rs.3000/-. The All India Anganwadi Workers Federation-AITUC is working with all its state units in almost all the states. “March to Parliament” was organized and the delegations met the concerned Ministers

65 Finance Minister and others. Several times national calls were given to observe protest demonstrations, rallies, dharnas etc. Apart from that many states have waged vehement heroic struggles of which its worth mentioning the struggles held in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Meghalaya and many more. In Karnataka the indefinite strike was on for several days and culminated into a “March to Assembly programme” in Bangalore with about 50,000 Anganwadi workers and helpers who squatted in Bangalore till the announcement is made. Within a few days when the announcement was not implemented, again the workers thronged to the capital city. That is the undeterred spirit of the Karnataka comrades. In Maharashtra, throughout the state, various of forms of struggles took place during December 2013 and January 2014. The struggles included rallies, dharnas, silent (Mourn) protests and ‘Halla bol’ rallies including ‘Bheek Mango’ programme for the state exchequer. Finally, the workers poured into Azad Maidan, Mumbai and refused to leave the place, till their demands were met. The main demand being the announcement of pension, which was announced earlier but not implemented. Similar struggles took place in Odisha, Bihar, Meghalaya and elsewhere. In Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister, Chandrababu Naidu, who is known for his anti workers polices, arrested Anganwadi workers and helpers the previous day in their home towns itself, when a ‘chalo Assembly’ programme to Hyderabad was announced. Several thousands could reach Hyderabad, where the arrests continued from the Bus Stops and Railway stations and still the workers could reach the Rally place. All the police stations were filled with Anganwadi workers. Finally the Chief Minister had to call the delegation for negotiations and promised an increase in the honorarium. This was finally announced in June 2015 of Rs.7100/- for Anganwadi workers and Rs.4100/- for the Anganwadi workers but still as on date increased honorarium is not paid. In Telangana an increase of Rs.7000/- and Rs.4000/- was achieved.

66 Asha workers According to a report on the status of India’s new born, the health challenges faced by new born in India are bigger than those experienced by any other country in the word. Around 2.5 million children die in India every year, accounting for one in five deaths in the world, with girls being 50% more likely to die. Same is the condition for mothers giving birth to the children. Thus the maternal mortality and infant mortality is at its worst position in India. Thus, the Govt. of India has introduced the “National Health Mission”, under which the “Accredited Social Health Activities” (ASHA) the women workers were given the job of taking cae of the pregnant women for a safe institutional delivery. These activists are on job for 24 hours. They are given the mobiles and are always at call. Finally what the wage they are given. Just a remuneration or so called incentive of not even Rs.500/- per month, which is also paid only twice a year. The women workers coming from a very poor background are expected to give free service. NHM’s is a very good intervention but the funds allocated are very scanty and further the recent budget has reduced the allocations having all the service sectors to the mercy of the state govts. The ASHA working under immense pressure spending their money for the poorer sections of the society are the worst exploited. They need by recognized as ‘workers’ and be given a minimum wage of Rs.15000/- and be given promotions as ANM’s as and when the vacancies arise. AITUC has been waging struggles statewide and at national level on the issues of ASHA unions are registered. March to Parliament was conducted and memorandums were submitted to the erstwhile Health Minister of UPA Govt. and the present NDA government.

67 WORKING WOMEN REPORT 2013 21.1.2013 Mid day meals at Chhattisgarh. Rally and memorandum to Governor Feb.2013 Anganwadi AP Budget session one week hunger strike 25.8.2013 Anganwadi workers 3rd State Conference of Jharkhand at Dhumka 25.9.2013 Chhattisgarh Mid day meal workers indefinite dharnas and rallies till 3.10.2013. Rally and memorandum to Chief Secretary. 5-7.10.2013 Anganwadi workers federation fifth national conference at Bhubaneshwar 5-7.10.2013 5th National conference of All India Anganwadi Workers Federation at Bhubaneshwar October 2013 Biggest strike for seven days in Maharashtra by Anganwadi workers. 9-10.12.2013 Maharashtra Anganwadi workers marched to Assembly. Stayed overnight and refused to go till the Govt. promised. 13.12.2013 Asha thousands have rallied in Delhi. Submitted memorandum to Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad Anganwadi workers submitted memorandum to Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister of Women and Child Development and Child Welfare. Karnataka 2013 various forms of agitations block level to state

2014 January 2014 Seminar on role of women in Development and Decision making challenges and opportunities at Ludhiana. 6.1.2014 Maharashtra Anganwadi workers indefinite strike

68 throughout the state- dharnas, jail bharo, silent morchas ‘Bheek Mango’ in aid of bankrupt govt. 8.1.2014 Massive Rasta Roko in Maharashtra by Anganwadi workers. 10-11.1.2014 National seminar at Parliament Annexe on ‘work environment’ for women workers-issues of safety and dignity. 16.1.2014 Massive relay hunger strike by Maharashtra Anganwadi workers at Azad Maidan, Mumbai. Biggest strike for a month. About 2 lacs workers participated. 4.2.2014 Militant contingent of more than 25000 rallied at Azad Maidan (Joint) Mumbai. Stayed overnight till they heard from the Cabinet decision to give a terminal benefit of Rs.one lac & Rs.75000/- to workers and helpers on retirement 4-5.2.2014 Stayed back at Azad Maidan by Maharashtra Anganwadi workers till the announcement was made. 10.2.2014 Massive State rally of 20000 at Bangalore rally addressed by Ministers & delegation. Met the CM honorary increased by 500/- and Rs.250/- 18.2.2014 Bihar State Rally of Anganwadi workers. About 15000 workers participated. 25.2.2014 Andhra Pradesh –Bipartite negotiations of Anganwadi workers with the Director of Women & Child Welfare and the Principal Secretary. 13.3.2014 Jharkhand Anganwadi workers. Rally and memorandum to the Chief Minister. 13.3.2014 Jharkhand-Rally & meeting at Ranchi by Anganwadi workers. Kerala got an increase of 1000/- & 500/- to Anganwadi workers and helpers Odisha. 11.4.2014 Meghalaya hundreds of Asha and Anganwadi

69 workers rallied at Shillong and submitted a memorandum to Chief Secretary and Director of Health Services. 8.6.2014 Assam-Asha first conference at Nilbagan, Hojai Sub Division 2.7.2014 All India Protest Day of scheme workers. In Delhi a good demonstration at Jantar Mantar & met the Ministers, Maneka Gandhi, Dr. Harsha Vardhan & Mrs. Smriti Irani. Protest demonstrations of Asha, Anganwadi and Mid day workers were held all over the country. 10.7.2014 MDM Chhatisgarh rallies in all districts till 21.7.2014. 21.7.2014 AP and Telangana joint rally of Anganwadi workers and helpers, Asha, MDM Dharna & Chalo Assembly. Rally in thousands 22.7.2014 National Protest day of scheme workers observed in all the states and in Delhi met the Ministers and submitted memorandum 28.9.2014 Chhatisgarh Mid day meal workers state convention. 2.11.2014 AIAWF General council meeting at Hyderabad. 15 States & 48 comrades attended 15-17.12.2014 Yogyakarta, Indonesia three days workshop of Domestic Workers organisation to reduce child domestic labour through promotion of decent work for domestic workers-strategies. AITUC representative participated.

2015 22.2.2015 Odisha 5th State Conference of Nikhila Odisha Anganwadi workers Karamchari Sangh at Barhampur. Rally & Public meeting.

70 Vijaya Lakshmi, Usha Sahni, Kumar Bindeshwar attended. Souribandhu Kar, D.K. Panda. 190 delegates from 10 districts 51 member Committee., D.K. President, Bejoy Genera Working President. Harapria General Secretary 17.3.2015 AP Anganwadi workers chalo Assembly, Hyderabad 17-18.3.2015 AP Anganwadi workers chalo Assembly, Hyderabad. Several workers were arrested. 20.4.2015 Met the Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitely & appealed to increase the budget allocations jointly with other unions. 17.5.2015 45th ILC recommendations for workers status of scheme workers. 26.5.2015 National Protest Day. (Marking the completion of one year of NDA Govt.) Call of Samyukta Morcha of Anganwadi Workers Employees Federation. But none of the other constituents participated. Only AITUC observed in a big way. Mass rallies and dharnas took place all over the country. 12.7.2015 Wardha (Maharashtra) Anganwadi workers Rasta Roko and Rally 20-27.7.2015 Anganwadi weeklong, protests at Wardha by Anganwadi workers 9.8.2015 Assam establishment & DW union. 8th General Conference. Minimum wage advisory board set up by State Govt. The unorganized workers social security Act, 2008 10.9.2015 Hyderabad Telangana State Road Transport Corporation lady conductors convention, attended by a large number and took further programme of action.

71 WORKING WOMEN FORUM Domestic Workers, the ever growing section of Urban Informal Sector workers, predominantly women, are the most vulnerable and are prone for the maximum exploitation of all forms. There could be nearly 90 million domestic workers in India. In June 2011, the ILO in its 101st ILC held in Geneva adopted C 189, the Convention for domestic workers. India was among the overwhelming majority of more than 450 members in the ILC who voted in favour of the convention. Some states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar have enacted laws protecting the rights of domestic workers. Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have fixed minimum wage for domestic worker. There have been persistent demands for the enhancement of minimum wages in these states. It is regrettable that except these states, the other states do not have any worthwhile protection for the domestic workers. Even in the states where the minimum wages are defined, implementation is dismally poor and there isno enforcement mechanism. This makes the law just a farce and an eyewash. In India the draft National policy for Domestic Workers is yet to be tabled in the parliament. This is the section that is most vulnerable to the worst of exploitation. When the draft for the Prevention of sexual harassment against women in the work places Act 2013 was discussed, the then UPA government had suggested to keep the domestic workers out of the protection of this Act. It was with the struggles and serious campaign of the Working Women Forum of AITUC with the other trade unions the draft was modified to include the domestic workers in the Act. The nature and peculiarity of domestic work is such that it renders the worker absolutely susceptible to all forms of exploitation. Majority of the domestic workers are the bread winners of the family being either a single parent deserted by the husbands or having to provide for the drunkard husbands in addition to the children.

72 In the absence of defined working conditions and wages they are left at the mercy of the employer, whose willingness and paying capacity alone decides the pay and not the labour involved. No weekly holiday or festival holidays are available to the domestic worker. Wages for the days of absence are deducted from the salary, even when the worker is sick. Quantum of work or maximum time limit for work is not fixed because of which the woman worker is liable to be loaded with any amount of work without any compensation. No social security nor other benefits like bonus, medical, increment in wages are available to the domestic workers. Very few state units of AITUC have organised and unionised the domestic workers. States like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Assam, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh have registered unions of domestic workers. Domestic work is a universal activity and domestic workers are present in all the states, all around us and amidst us. Special and sincere focus should be taken to unionise these workers. Some states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, etc,. have state welfare boards for domestic workers. Unions should take advantage of the welfare boards to unionise these workers. But since this is a large section of women workers suffering even to get recognised as ‘workers’, our commitment to organise the unorganise can hardly be realised leaving aside this section.. Tamil Nadu has registered a state level union of domestic workers and has a paid membership of 3500, mostly in the city of Chennai. Organisational programmes such as hall meetings, dharnas, demonstrations, hunger strike, one lakh signature campaign etc,. have been consistently carried out demanding minimum wages and other defined working conditions including weekly off. The union has submitted memorandum to the Chief Minister calling for her attention. The earlier DMK government had brought the domestic workers under Schedule 1 of the Minimum Wages Act. But so far minimum wages have not been notified. The union keeps its members engaged in regular trade union meetings.

73 Domestic workers are the local level leaders. One domestic worker is a member of the state council of AITUC. Domestic workers participate in all the AITUC programmes in large numbers. Maharashtra too has an active domestic workers union. These workers participate in large numbers in all the AITUC programmes. The union continues its struggle for a state level welfare board and payment of the minimum wages already notified by the government. State units of AITUC should take sincere and consistent efforts in unionizing domestic workers.

Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 Working Women Forum of AITUC played a vital role in the enactment of the law. At the level of discussions and debate our Working Women Forum had made crucial interventions to include the domestic workers under the purview of the Act. Working Women Forum had organised a national level seminar on this act in New Delhi immediately after it was enacted. The declaration of the seminar had resolved to hold awareness campaigns in all the states. Besides, the seminar also after debating on the clause on penalty to the complainant in the event of the complaint being proved as false, wrote to the ministry demanding amendment to the clause. The seminar also demanded protection to the complainant and her job, particularly when she is an unorganised sector worker. Working Women Forum also demands inclusion of a trade union representative in the complaints committee. It is good to note the fact that in some sectors like banking, members of the Working Women Forum are members on the board of the Internal Complaints Committees. Some states like Tamil Nadu have conducted seminars in their states. In Tamilnadu seminar on this Act was held together with AIBEA in Chennai. In Tiruppur, the district Working women Forum had held public campaigns in the bus stands, street corners and

74 the factory gates creating awareness. Hand bills were distributed and wide postering was done. The Banian Workers’ Union in Tiruppur had sent communication to the mill owners demanding immediate constitution of complaint committees. All the state units of AITUC should hold seminars creating awareness among the women workers about this law. In all the workplaces where women work, complaints committees should be compulsorily demanded and constituted. Demand for a member of the Trade union in the committee should be a universal demand.

State Level working Women Forums: Working Women Forums have been formed in many states. Some states are yet to form their working women forums. It is quite encouraging to note that in some of the states the women forums have shaped up into well functioning bodies. Women leaders are involved in the mainstream trade union work and activities. Some states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Pondicherry etc,. have inducted women into their state councils of AITUC. More concrete efforts should be taken to form working women forums. Trade union education and leadership training should be given to the local level women workers. Organising, unionising and preparing women leaders should be an uncompromising and day to day activity of every state, every sector and every union.

Home based workers: In the era of market liberalization and changing work relations, most of the work that was hitherto performed in the factories is now shifted to the confines of home. Contracting and sub contracting pattern has resulted in increasing home based workers, predominantly women. Hosiery, leather, shoe making, cashew industry, gem cutting etc are some industries where women’s labour is exploited for paltry wages. These workers are deprived of the protection of labour laws inspite of active participation in production. These women workers are very large in numbers but remain invisible. AITUC in its earlier conference had decided to hold an exclusive convention on home based workers. But it could not be

75 done. From this conference we should carry our commitment to organize home based workers.

Street vendors: This section of workers are perennially exposed to the sjambok of the police because they are considered encroaching into the public spaces. But as a result of the sustained efforts of the trade unions street vendors act 2014 has been enacted. This act provides many protections to the street vendors. There are lot of women street vendors exposed for physical abuse also. Our unions should take advantage of this act and start organizing women and men street vendors.

Sector wise women’s forums: It is essential to organize and activate women. Therefore AITUC always insists on forming sector wise women’s forums wherein sector specific women’s issues can be discussed . These forums will help groom women workers into leaders. Tamil Nadu has formed Women Construction workers forum. Women Bus Conductors Telangana state has recently held a convention of women bus conductors. The attendance was huge. The women dealing with the public every day have their specific problems. Though they are working in the organized public sector, the women issues are not taken care of. The basic amenities are not provided. The additional Managing Director of the Corporation was also present at the convention and was very sympathetic to the women’s issues and promised to comply with the demands. It was with the fight of the AITUC since the year 2000, that, already some demands were met and others are on the process. Universal Entitlement of Maternity Benefit: It is since long that the AITUC is fighting for Universal Entitlement of Maternity Benefit for all the women workers and thereby for Dignity to Women and Womanhood. All women are entitled to maternity benefits from either the employer, if they are working in organised sector, or the state if they are unemployed, self-employed or employed in the informal/ unorganised sector. All nursing mothers

76 should be allowed two nursing breaks in addition to the general work breaks of duration 30 minutes each. The Act should be amended that the period for which any woman shall be entitled to maternity benefit shall be nine months, that is to say, three months up to and six months immediately following the delivery.The rationale for nine months maternity benefit is that in the third trimester, women shall not indulgein hard manual labour, or any work which they consider medically unfit for their pregnancy, and in the six months after delivery exclusive breastfeeding needs to be promoted for the child’s health and nutrition.

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