Former Employees Demand Jobs for Dependents at Rakha Copper Project
Key Points:
- Former workers protest against Hindustan Copper Limited management policies
- Employees threaten major agitation if demands not met by July 23
- New committee formed with Vishwanath Mahato as president
JAMSHEDPUR – Former employees of Hindustan Copper Limited demonstrated at Rakha Copper project demanding employment for their dependents and pending dues settlement.
The copper production company reopened Rakha Copper Mines after 24 years. However, former workers organized protests at the puja pandal. Moreover, they issued ultimatum regarding their demands by July 23.
Management awarded production contract to Jindal-linked outsourcing company. On the other hand, former employees expressed anger over dependent neglect. Furthermore, they criticized appointment of non-company personnel in new positions.
Workers accused company of breaking employment promises for dependents. Meanwhile, they demanded fulfillment of commitments made during mine closure. However, management allegedly refuses to honor previous agreements.
Former employees held massive assembly at the venue today. In addition, large numbers participated in the gathering. Besides, they decided to submit memorandum to HCL management on July 23.
BJP leader Manoj Pratap Singh addressed the assembly. He alleged management sells jobs for Rs 10,000 through middlemen. Moreover, he claimed these intermediaries enjoy company protection and support.
Singh criticized non-payment of pending worker dues. On the other hand, he demanded employment for at least one dependent per family. Furthermore, he referenced 2001 job cuts affecting numerous families.
The leader emphasized workers’ blood and sweat since 1969. However, he noted children received nothing after mine closure. Meanwhile, management had promised jobs and pending payment settlements.
Lita Murmu, Vishal Murmu, Vishwanath Mahato addressed the gathering. In addition, Tapas Madina spoke about worker rights. Besides, they demanded company attention to former employee concerns.
Former workers accused management of favoring village heads. On the other hand, they claimed their role in company establishment. Moreover, they alleged conspiracy to usurp their pending amounts.
Workers threatened plant shutdown if demands remain unmet. However, they seek single job per affected family. Furthermore, they demanded immediate resolution of outstanding payment issues.
A new committee formation took place during the assembly. Meanwhile, Vishwanath Mahato became president through unanimous selection. However, BJP leader Manoj Pratap Singh assumed general secretary position.
The committee includes three vice-presidents for representation. Lita Ram Murmu, Vishal Mahato serve as vice-presidents. Moreover, Arvind Kumar Bhakt completes the vice-president trio.
Ajit Patron assumed secretary responsibilities for the organization. On the other hand, V.N. Sharma became treasurer through committee selection. Furthermore, the committee represents surrounding village former employees.
The organization encompasses workers from plant-adjacent villages. However, it focuses on comprehensive former employee representation. Moreover, the committee aims unified voice for worker demands.
Hindustan Copper Limited remains India’s primary copper producer. Meanwhile, Rakha project represents significant mining investment in region. However, worker-management tensions threaten smooth operations and production targets.
