Memorandum to CMD BSNL and CMD MTNL on urgent issues

A large number of urgent problems were pending, which required immediate attention of the government, DOT and the BSNL Management. These included the issues of No FDI, ADC, USOF, No Outsourcing, No MTNL – BSNL Merger, Absorption of ITS officers, No unbundling, Broadband etc.
The JF which met on 14th March 2005 decided to submit a memorandum to the CMD on the above subjects and the same was handed over to the CMDs on 19th April 2005. It was signed by all the General Secretaries and they also participated in the meetings with CMDs.
The JF leaders had met Secretary, DOT Shri Nripendra Mishra on 11th February 2005 and requested for early action at the government level. On 15th March 2005, DOT issued letter ensuring government pension to BSNL retirees, which gave a big relief to the workers and pensioners. Another letter was also received on 28th September 2005 from Shri J.S.Sharma, Secretary DOT that the Prime Minister has intimated that the recommendations of the TRAI to unbundle cables has not been accepted. This again was another victory.
Meeting with Communications minister on 25th November 2005.
Since other issues were still pending settlement, the Joint Forum Convener V.A.N.Namboodiri and other leaders met Communications minister Shri Dayanidhi Maran on 25th November 2005 and had a long discussion, but no decision was reached. DOT Secretary was also present.
Agitational Programmes
The JF of BSNL Unions had a 5 days marathon meeting from 20th November and decided for agitational programmes including one day strike on the following demands:
1. No disinvestment in BSNL.
2. No Increase in FDI
3. 3No opening of last mile copper.
4. No reduction in Revenue sharing and ADC
5. Grant of Navaratna status to BSNL.
6. Expand mobile and Broad band services
7. Grant autonomy to BSNL
8. Absorb Group A / ITS Officers.
As part of the agitational programmes, Lunch hour demonstration on 8th December, and Dharna on 21 December 2005 was organized at SSA levels all over the country. Notice for One Day Strike on 5th January 2006 was issued to DOT and BSNL Management. (to be continued)