2014
Memorandum to the Prime Minister
As per the decision of the Forum, a Memorandum was prepared and presented to the Prime Minister on 14-02-2014 on the following burning issues facing BSNL and its workers:
- No Merger of BSNL and MTNL without settling the question of MTNL’s huge liability and disinvestment as also the HR Issues
- No formation of subsidiary Tower Company as proposed
- Revival of BSNL.
- Loss on rural services should be compensated to BSNL
- Provide soft loan to BSNL for procurement of equipment etc.
The Forum also expressed it s strong protest against the non-discussion of these issues by the BSNL Management as also DOT.
Lunch Hour Demonstrations on 28-02-2014
As per decision of the Forum meeting held on 27-02-2014, lunch hour demonstrations were held on 28-02-2014 against merger of BSNL & MTNL and formation of companies bifurcating BSNL. Though at short notice, the programme was well responded by the workers.
Superannuation benefits of Directly Recruited employees
The Forum leaders met the High Power Committee appointed by the Management on 14-02-2014 and discussed about the superannuation benefits to the BSNL recruited employees. Forum leaders insisted for 30% benefits as per the guide lines of DPE. The management was prepared to provide only 20%. A detailed letter on our demands was given to the management.
Merger of BSNL and MTNL
The Forum wrote a strong letter to the BSNL Management and DOT opposing the proposed merger of BSNL and MTNL and warned that if any arbitrary decision is taken, the workers will be compelled to go on agitational programmes including indefinite strike. It was assured by DOT that the concerns raised by the unions will be taken in to consideration and the unions will be consulted before any final decision is taken.
Pension Contribution
Forum demanded the DOT that the pension contribution to be paid by BSNL to DOT should be on the actual basic salary and not on the maximum of the scale as is being calculated at present. No decision was taken in the matter. (To be continued)