68. BSNL – STRUGGLES FOR EXISTENCE (1)

Mention has already been made in earlier chapters about the struggles and strikes organised by E.III/E.III (N) union along with likeminded unions under the banner of National Action Committee during the 1990s against corporatization / privatization of telecom services hitherto maintained by Department of Telecom.  After formation of BSNL in 2000, there were lot of problems connected with  service and wage conditions of employees as also problems arisen due to transfer of services from a government department to a PSU. These were dealt with suitably by the union through negotiation and struggles.

It may not be preferable to go in detail about the struggles and organizational activities  as part of a life story, but it will not be correct also to omit these sustained struggles participated by lakhs of workers in order to safeguard the interests of the public and for existence of this prestigious PSU, BSNL.  I also was part of this great crusade.

Most important issue was the existence of BSNL. Both BJP as well as Congress governments, which succeeded one after another, conspired to privatize this much profitable public utility. While all facilities and subsidies were granted to private telecom companies, ignored its own company. Government had understood that growth of BSNL is always a threat  to private companies.  The latter were eagerly waiting to grab the thousands of acres of prime land and buildings of BSNL, mainly in the cities and major towns across the country.

BSNL received licence for mobile services only in 2002, about long 7 years after  same was granted to private companies. But within few years, reached second position and was going to be in first position. Made yearly profit of around Rs.10,000 crores. BSNL was expanding with the full support of  workers, despite corporatization.

Well realizing that joint effort is a must to continue  expansion and better service, as the recognized union, BSNLEU contacted all unions and associations in BSNL and MTNL and took  initiative in forming  Joint Forum of BSNL- MTNL Unions/Associations, which  organized innumerable  struggles for the above purpose. I got the opportunity to work as the Convener of the Joint Forum 2004 to 2015. Although vacated the post of General Secretary of BSNLEU in 2010, continued till 2015 as Convener on the insistence of all the constituents. Though functioned first as Joint Forum of BSNL – MTNL unions/associations, due to certain developments changed  to Joint forum of BSNL unions/associations later. A short report is given in the following paragraphs about the struggles and agitations organized under the joint Forum/ Forum etc. 

First programme organized was a mammoth March to  residence of Communications Minister on 21^st December 2004. The main demand was that the Access Deficit Charge (ADC) to be collected from  private companies and to be handed over to BSNL, as assured at the time of corporatization, should not be reduced. ADC was intended to compensate BSNL for the huge expenses it was incurring to provide services in the remote areas and villages, where private companies refused to enter. Reduction going to be made was to favour  private companies. A Memorandum on this and other issues was given to the Prime Minster on the same day.

Organised demonstration at all levels on 8^th February 2005 protesting against increase of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in telecom sector from 49% to 74%.

Government was moving to merge BSNL and MTNL in to one company. Joint Forum insisted that the shares sold by MTNL should be bought back and loans taken by MTNL should be written off before merger is done. Eventually government dropped the plan.

Joint Forum leaders along with Members of Parliament, Coms.Basudeb Acharya and Neelotpal Basu met Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on 2nd March 2005 and submitted a Memorandum on restoration of reduced ADC, against FDI increase, against BSNL-MTNL merger, for justified allotment from USO Fund, the unjustified discrimination against BSNL by TRAI etc and discussed for more than half hour. Prime Minister assured that  government is duty bound to give all help to BSNL and MTNL and that the issues included in the Memorandum will be favourably considered. It was significant that this was the first meeting the unions had with the Prime Minister after formation of BSNL.

One issue which the Joint Forum has brought to  notice of Prime Minister was settled immediately. DOT issued orders on 13^th March 2005 stating that the pension of DOT officials absorbed in BSNL will be fully paid by the central government. Another demand raised that the copper cables of  BSNL should not be privatised was also accepted.

But at the same time, news came in the papers that the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has decided to sell shares 6 profitable PSUs, including BSNL. Fully justified ‘Navaratna’ status was denied to BSNL.  ITS officers were not absorbed in BSNL, which was against growth of the company. Anti-BSNL decisions were being taken one after another. Raising these and other issues, notice for strike on 5^th January 2006 was served.

When meeting of JF was being held at about 20.00 hours on 4^th January, call came from Shri J.S.Sharma, Secretary DOT, asking to meet him immediately at Sanchar Bhawan to discuss the strike issues. Indication was given that he was calling from the office of the Prime Minister.  Though the JF was of the opinion that there is no use in a discussion in last minute, decided that Convener alone can go and come back after confirming our strike decision. Officers were waiting at the gate of Sanchar Bhawan. Took me to the DOT Secretary’s room immediately. He was alone. He asked what the important demands of the strike are. I gave him copy of the notice and explained. He called Shri Yeshwant Bhave, Additional Secretary, who was in the next room and dictated a letter which was typed in the computer and copy given to me.  It assured that:

1. There is no proposal regarding disinvestment in BSNL
2. Unbundling of the local loop is not under consideration
3. All efforts will be made towards obtaining ‘Navaratna’ status to BSNL
4. Views of the union will be considered as and when the Draft Telecom Policy is formulated.

He stated that other demands also will be sympathetically considered.

Returned immediately, reported to JF the developments. JF decided to defer the strike as some of the major demands have been accepted. It is significant that none of these assurances have been violated so far, even though certain moves were there.

As per call of Joint Forum, protest demonstrations were held all over India on 1^st March 2006, against the continued concessions being given to the private telecoms reducing payment to ADC as well as revenue sharing. JF issued press statement against proposal of the government to share BSNL towers with private companies.

Met Shri Dayanidhi Maran, Communications Minister on 12^th July 2006 along with senior M.P. and leader of CPI (M) in Lok Sabha, Com. Basudeb Acharya and discussed issues. He stated that even capitalist US had not unbundled cables and assured that it will not be done here also.

Thousands of telegrams were sent to Prime Minister on 27^th July 2006 demanding that shares of BSNL/MTNL should not be sold, no unbundling of cables, no sharing of PSU infrastructure, no increase in FDI, no reduction in ADC and revenue sharing, grant of Navaratna status, autonomy for PSUs, expansion of mobile services and immediate absorption of ITS in BSNL.

More than 12,000 BSNL-MTNL employees organized a mammoth Parliament March on 3^rd August 2006, on the above demands, which was addressed by Members of Parliament Basudeb Acharya, Sitaram Yechury and Roop Chand Pal.

Agitational programmes were organised and discussion held with Secretary DOT on the decision  of DOT  that if pension amount is more than 60 % of the taxes, Licence Fee, Dividend etc. paid by BSNL, then the balance of pension will have to be paid by BSNL (60%-40%). JF demanded that the earlier decision to pay pension in full by   government should be ensured. It was also demanded that the CGEGIS should be refunded to the employees.

At this time, BSNL management had floated global tender for 4.5 crore mobile phones (GSM) to meet the increased demand, but the same was questioned by the private companies in the Supreme Court on various flimsy grounds and got stayed. By one year the SC cleared the tender dismissing objections. Unfortunately, Communications Minister A.Raja intervened and cancelled the tenders on the plea that the cost is high compared to the MTNL tender earlier. It was not that he did not know that this tender was technically superior than earlier tender. It was only to support the private companies.

Joint Forum opposed the decision and decided on agitational programmes including indefinite strike from 11^th July 2007, since this was an issue which will have serious repercussions on the growth of the company. Discussions with the Secretary, DOT failed to resolve the issue. Minister met the JF leaders on 10^th July evening and gave some vague assurances, but that too not in writing.

The strike started in the mid night of 10^th/11^th as given notice of. The entire workforce of 3,40,000  executives and non-executives went on strike. The biggest strike after formation of BSNL.  Even in Corporate Office, all except top officers on strike. Telecom services all over the country paralysed. Workers understood that this was a do or die struggle. All newspapers published the news in front page with priority. Editorials criticizing government were published. The country heard with shock the cancellation of the mobile tender for 4.5 crores which would have benefitted the people at large. Central government was in the dock.

The strike had lightning effect. Minister called and discussed with Joint Forum and assured that immediate action will be taken on tender. Within one week fresh tender was placed, but only for 2.275 crore, which was half of the earlier tender. At least  immediate requirement was met.

Government again started for implementation of VRS, for 20,000 employees this time. Management had to retreat due to strong opposition from the Joint Forum and threat of agitation and assured that VRS will not be implemented without discussion with unions.

A vastly attended Seminar was held at the Eastern Court premises Delhi on 7^th September 2007 on the development and expansion of BSNL services attended by thousands of workers. Presidents of all constituent unions/associations of JF presided. Veteran leaders M.K.Pandhe (CITU), Sitaram Yechuri M.P.(CPIM), Gurudas Dasgupta M.P.(AITUC), Harish Rawat M.P.(Congress), Kuppusamy M.P.(DMK) and others addressed. Leaders of unions/associations addressed and explained the issues.(to be continued).

 

 

 

Many lives are reported to be lost in the glacial burst on Nandadevi triggered an avalanche and the resultant flash floods in Rishiganga and Dhauliganga rivers in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. It was a sunny day on 7th inst and everything normal untill the tragedy hit the area. The Tapovan hydel project of NTPC was completely washed away and the several workers aslo swept away. Many people are reported to be missing and rescue operations are going on in full swing. Some of the bodies have been recovered while 16 people rescued .The actual loss of human lives and property may be known later only.

AIBDPA is saddened on the great loss and condole the demises of the people and stand with the people of Uttarakhand at this hour of calamity.

66. ALL INDIA CONFERENCES (1)

ERODE AIC – 1999

After Thiruvananthapuram All India conference in 1994, the next AIC of E.III / E.III (N) was held in Erode, T.Nadu from 13^th to 17^th May 1999. The long delay in holding  AIC was due to the dispute created by OPG group, the membership verification and numerous court cases. The Reception Committee with Com. S.Mohandoss as President and Com.S.Chellappa as General Secretary made excellent arrangements for the conference.

Com.K.Adinarayana, President of NFPE and legendry leader of P & T employees, inaugurated the Conference. Coms. Brinda Karat, John Moses (Janatha Dal), Viduthalai Thirumbi, M.P., Moni Bose and other leaders addressed. Detailed discussion took place on organizational matters as well as problems of the workers. Decided to organize strong agitational programmes against corporatization/ privatization of telecom services. 

All India Conference elected Coms. K.D.M.Tripathi as President and V.A.N.Namboodiri as General Secretary and G.J. Sheikh as Treasurer.

FORMATION CONFERENCE OF BSNLEU AT VISAKHAPATNAM

The Formation / First Conference of BSNLEU was held at Visakhapatnam on 21-22 March 2021, about which mention has been made earlier. Next AICs were held in time and as per the constitution of the union.

LUCKNOW AIC – 2003

II AIC of BSNLEU was held at Lucknow, capital of U.P. and historical city, on 2-5 June 2003. Best arrangements were made for holding the conference under the leadership of senior leaders Com.R.S.Yadav, K.D.M.Tripathy, O.P.Verma, K.R.Yadav and others.

Com. E.Balanandan, President CITU, and always a guide to BSNLEU, inaugurated the AIC. Spoke about the task in the trade union front and the need to strengthen the public sector, including BSNL. For the first time, on our invitation, a team of delegates from Telecommunication Employees Association of Nepal (TEAN) led by its President Com. Thankalal Shrestha attended and greeted the conference. They were given a warm welcome by the delegates.

It was terrible heat, rising up to about 48 degrees and sitting in the spacious tent in the maidan was most difficult. Then came the cyclonic  storm and torrential rain due to which the tent, decorations etc. were washed away. It was only due to tremendous efforts on the part of the  reception committee volunteers that necessary arrangements were made to conduct the conference in the next three days.

The Conference discussed about organizational matters. Strategies were chalked out for winning next membership verification. Office bearers with Comrades J.N.Mishra as President, V.A.N.Namboodiri as General Secretary, P.Abhimanyu as Dy. General Secretary and Nafe Singh as Treasurer were unanimously elected.

GUWAHATI AIC – 2006

Next AIC was held at Guwahati, capital of Assam, from 26^th to 29^th January 2006.  Reception Committee was headed by Dr. Muniril Hussain with All India President Com.J.N.Mishra as General Convener. Very good arrangements were made for holding the AIC and for accommodation. Thousands of people attended the open session with 745 delegates, 450 observers and the public.

Com.Chithabrata Majumdar, General Secretary, CITU inaugurated. Secretary DOT and other top officers of DOT and BSNL were present. In the Trade Union Seminar, leaders of the various unions in BSNL addressed and presented their view points about improving the services. When O.P.Gupta made some caustic comments about BSNLEU, the delegates shouted slogans protesting against the unjustified remarks. General Secretary intervened and requested the delegates to keep calm and stated that he is our invitee. He also stated that suitable reply will be given to his speech. Com.Sudha Sunderaraman, General Secretary of AIDWA inaugurated the Mahila Convention, which was participated by many women delegates and others.

Despite the threat of certain terrorist groups of Assam that National Flag should not be hoisted, the same was hoisted as usual in the AIC venue and kept it safe till the end of the conference. This incident gave encouragement to the people of Assam.

Saplings were planted by Secretary DOT, CMD, Union General Secretary and others in the CGM Office premises where the conference was held. When I went there a few years back, all these have grown up in to big trees.

This was the first AIC after winning the Membership Verification for the first time and getting recognition after a decade. Problems were discussed in detail and decided to effectively take up with management for settlement. Office-bearers with Com.J.N.Mishra, V.A.N.Namboodiri, P.Abhimanyu and Nafe Singh were elected as President, General Secretary, Deputy General Secretary and Treasurer respectively.

MUMBAI AIC – 2008

Fourth AIC of BSNLEU was held in Mulund in the financial capital of India, Mumbai, from 13^th to 16^th February 2008. A record number of delegates (1359) and observers (2109) participated. Despite this unusual number which created a difficult situation, the Reception Committee headed by Mayor of Mumbai Smt. Dr. Shubha Raul as Chairman and Comrade G.Mathpati as General Secretary, managed the arrangements comfortably.

CITU President, Com.M.K.Pandhe, inaugurated the conference. He spoke about the international and national situation and the present task of the workers. Shri A.Raja, Communications Minister attended and explained the various actions being taken to improve BSNL. It was for the first time after many years that a Communications Minister attended the AIC. There were many top officers of DOT and BSNL along with Minister.

International delegates Comrades Dulsi Desilva (Srilanaka), Vice-President of WFTU and  Gopal Dhakal (TEAN), (who was later appointed as Director of Nepal Communications) with his team attended and addressed, explaining the situation in their countries. Shri   Arvind Sawant, M.P. (later Central Minister) also addressed. He stated that he is under treatment in the hospital but had come to address as he could not reject the invitation from Com.Namboodiri. I had earlier mentioned about my visit to him before the verification of membership and the friendly reception.

Discussion took place on the various issues and organization. Membership has increased as also responsibility.

Coms. J.N.Mishra, V.A.N.Namboodiri, P.Abhimanyu and S.C.Bhattacharjee were elected as President, General Secretary, Deputy General Secretary and Treasurer respectively.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM AIC – 2010

The Fifth All India conference of BSNLEU held at Thiruvananthapuram on 12-15 May 2010 was significant in many respects. The Reception Committee with Com.Anavoor Nagappan as Chairman, Com.R.Muralidharan Nair as Working Chairman with Com.K.Mohanan as General Convener made excellent arrangements for holding the conference as also accommodation etc.

Com. M.K.Pandhe, Vice-President, CITU, inaugurated the AIC. In the seminar held on the subject ‘Challenges faced by     BSNL’, Com.Kodiyeri Balakrishnan,  Home Minister, Kerala  and trade union leaders participated. Com.Tapan Sen, General Secretary CITU, criticized the anti-worker policies of the central government. Com.K.Hemalatha, Convener, All India Working Women’s Committee, addressed. Dr. Thomas Isaac, Finance Minister, Kerala, spoke in detail about the financial issues the country faced.

AIC decided to construct an office for the union at Delhi. An amount of Rs. 3,70,900 was received as donation from the delegates on the spot. The procession participated by thousands of workers were greeted on the route by various trade unions by shouting of slogans and flowers. The delegates from the various states were enthused by these greetings, which showed the close relationship between BSNLEU and other trade unions. 

Thiruvananthapuram had special significance as mentioned above. The first conference after settling the pay revision, four promotions in service, a very good performance in the membership verification and so on. Hence the AIC was a conference of celebrating these successes. All the delegates were happy about these developments and expressed their appreciation.

Another point is about the change in the Chief Executive post. Since the All India conference of E. III Union in Thiruvananthapuram in 1994, I have been continuing as General Secretary of E.III / E.III(N) Union and that of BSNL Union since its formation in 2001, thus a total of the last 16 years. I was for a change in the Mumbai AIC in 2008, but comrades were not prepared to allow me to be relieved, especially in the situation when negotiation on the crucial Pay Revision, Five promotions etc were in the process.

Now the situation is different. Along with the two issues above, many other problems were settled. The organization also has become stronger with a steady base of dedicated workers and experienced leaders. Also my earlier decision not to continue more than four terms in a post. The best opportunity to hand over the baton to the next generation. Though there was much pressure on me to continue from the delegates and leaders, convinced them about the need of the time. Reminded them about the decision at  Guwahati Conference  only to elect working employees, in which I only was exempted due to the special requirement of the organization. Now that situation no more existed.

Accordingly Com.P.Abhimanyu, Deputy General Secretary since 2003 Lucknow AIC, was unanimously elected as the new General Secretary. I was elected as President of the Union, as workers felt that at least I should be there in the team. Com.P.Asokababu, who was AGS earlier, was elected as Deputy General Secretary and Com.S.C.Bhattacharjee as Treasurer. 

Though changed from the post of General Secretary to that of President, continued to stay at Delhi as per decision of the union.

 

ALL INDIA CONFERENCES (2)

LUDHIANA AIC – 2012

Ludhiana Conference held from 25^th to 28^th September 2012 was the first AIC, after I became President. Com.A.K.Padmanabhan, President CITU, inaugurated the Conference. As usual, in addition to the delegates’ session, Seminar and Mahila Convention were also held successfully. The function held in connection with the 105 Birth Anniversary of Martyr Bhagat Singh was very emotional and inspiring. Reception Committee under the leadership of Comrades Prof. H.S.Sidhu, R.L.Mudgil and Balbir Singh made all arrangements for the AIC in an efficient way.

Office-bearers with Comrades V.A.N. as President, P.Abhimanyu as General Secretary, Animesh Mitra as Deputy General Secretary and S.C.Bhattacharya as Treasurer were unanimously elected. 3148 comrades including delegates, observers and visitors participated.

KOLKATA AIC – 2014

VII All India Conference of BSNLEU was held on 6-9 November 2014 in Panchavady Holiday Resorts, outside Kolkata city. It was decided to hold the AIC at Alipore Telecom Factory premises in the centre of the city and all arrangements, including construction of big pandal were made. It was at that time that Trinamool goondas came and threatened the CGM, Telecom Factory, with dire consequences if the AIC is allowed to be held there. Even they threatened to kill him. The dangerous situation was well known to all. Hence to avoid any untoward incident, conference site was shifted outside the city overnight. Reception Committee with veteran leader Com. Sisir Bhattacharjee as President, Adhir Kumar Sen as Working President, Animesh Mitra and Saibal Sen Gupta as Joint General Secretaries took great pains for making all arrangements including the shifting and arranging about 40 buses every day to transport   delegates from the city to the conference site and return.

Com.A.K.Padmanabhan, CITU President, inaugurated the conference. TEAN delegates led by Com.Raj Bahadur Rawal attended and greeted. Com.K.G.Jayaraj, General Secretary AIBDPA and Com.Tapas Ghosh, Secretary General BSNLCCWF conveyed greetings. Leaders of sister organizations addressed.

Though Conference was held outside the city, the procession and public meeting were held in the centre of the city. Many comrades advised against participating in the procession due to Trinamool threat, but I walked in the front of one jatha till the meeting place. Fortunately there was no problem. Public meeting was attended by large number of people.

My feeling that it is not desirable to continue as office-bearer of the union after a long period of retirement was accepted by the leadership and was allowed to vacate the post of President. However, as a token of respect, was elected  as Patron.

Office bearers with Com.Balbir  Singh as President, Com.P.Abhimanyu as General Secretary, Com.Swapan Chakraborty as Deputy General Secretary and  Com. Saibal Sen Gupta as Treasurer were elected.

 

 

CHENNAI AIC – 2017

Eighth AIC of BSNLEU was held at Chennai, capital city of T.Nadu from 31^st     December 2016 to 3^rd January 2017. Venue was Kamaraj Auditorium at Theynampet. Reception Committee with Com. T.K.Rengarajan as Chairman and Com.S.Chellappa as General Convener made all arrangements for  conduct of the AIC.

Com.A.K.Padmanabhan , Vice-President, CITU, inaugurated. Delegates from Nepal under the leadership of Com. Raj Bahadur Rawal attended. Comrades M.Krishnan (Confederation), K.G.Jayaraj (AIBDPA) V.Ramesh (AIIEA) addressed. 1032 persons attended including delegates, observers and visitors. BSNL officers including CMD BSNL Shri Anupam Sreevastava attended and addressed. Leaders of other BSNL unions also addressed.

Though I had decided to return to Kerala after Kolkata AIC, remained at Delhi mainly to complete writing of the book ‘History of P and T Trade Union Movement’, for which a lot of reference had to be got from  old   records and union journals which  are available in the NFPE, P.III, RMS union offices. In addition, since the General Secretaries of AIBDPA and BSNLCCWF were not available at Delhi, that work also had to be attended. Writing of the book had been completed. The Book,  ‘History of P and T Trade Union Movement’ was later released in the All India Conference of P.III Union held at Bengaluru by Com. Tapan Sen, General Secretary, CITU.

In the formation Conference of BSNLEU at Visakhapatnam, veteran leaders Coms. Sisir Bhattacharjee and Moni Bose were elected as Patrons as a token of respect. From next year onwards, nobody was elected to these posts. Now, I have been working in that post for the last one year. Considering all these, I had decided to vacate the post and return to Kozhikode, Kerala.

I had become a member of the All India Telegraph Engineering Union Class III (NFPTE) in 1958 when I joined the P and T Department. I have been entrusted with various responsibilities like Branch, Divisional, Circle Secretaries, Assistant  General Secretary etc. till 1991. Was elected as President in 1991 Bhopal AIC. Since 1994 working as General Secretary of E.III/E.III (N) and BSNLEU till 2010. Later, as President and Patron till now. I have  been a part of this great organization for long six decades. Had the good opportunity to meet and work with lakhs of telecom and other workers. Got love and affection from all. This was a farewell from the union but the connection will continue.

My speech in the AIC was based on the above factors – A Farewell Speech. Immediately after the speech many comrades came and emotionally requested me to continue. But I had already taken a firm decision. I was given a hearty Farewell and present by the AIC.

Com. Balbir Singh was elected as President, Com. P.Abhimanyu as  General Secretary, Com.Swapan Chakraborty as Dy. General Secretary and Com.Gakul Borah as Treasurer.

Time was about 21.30 hours when the AIC ended. I had to rush to the Airport. Ran to the nearby road to catch a taxi to the airport. One delegate helped me to carry the suitcase etc.  Taxi drivers told that I will not reach the airport in time to catch the flight as the road was very much congested. I hired an auto riksha, since even through traffic rush they can manage to move forward. I reached airport late by one hour, but flight was one and half hour late. Got the flight, comfortably rested in the flight and reached Delhi.

MYSURU AIC – 2018

The next AIC was held at Mysuru, the beautiful city of Karnataka from 17^th to 20^th December 2018. Though not a delegate or office-bearer, attended the same on  invitation from Coms. M.C.Balakrishna, H.V.Sudarshan and C.K.Gundanna, Chairman, Working Chairman and General Secretary of the Reception Committee. Attended the inaugural session which was inaugurated by Com.Tapan Sen, General Secretary, CITU. Despite his heavy responsibility as General Secretary, Reception Committee, Com.Gundanna found time to look after my comfort and discuss about the conduct of the Conference. Since I had to return urgently, I left in the first day itself. Office-bearers with Coms. Animesh Mitra. P.Abhimanyu, Swapan Chakraborty and Gakul Bora were elected as President, General Secretary, Deputy General Secretary and Treasurer respectively. (to be continued).

P and T Department was one of the institutions which provided a lot of employment to eligible youngsters for decades in Independent India. The number rose to about 10 lakhs during the 1970s.

P and T was bifurcated in to Postal Department and Telecom Department. Continuous improvement in technology reduced staff in Telecom. When corporatised, BSNL had a strength of about 3.5 lakhs. After 20 years and with VRS implemented in 2020 for about 80,000, present staff strength is below 70,000. Casual/Contract workers numbering about one lakh has been reduced to about 35,000 by retrenching them even without paying arrears of wages for more than one year.

The Revival Plan announced by the government is only partially implemented, with 4G service etc. still far away.

How the work can be done with such reduced staff? Outsourcing of many works has started, but that is no solution. Franchisees are interested more in providing private telecom services than that of BSNL.

Government has replied in the parliament that there is no proposal to privatise BSNL. Well and good. But why not allow it to function by providing 4 G Service and recruiting sufficient staff to man the services?

By retrenching 80,000 workers, BSNL has saved about Rs.7,000 crores per year. BSNL can not claim that it is still in loss. Why not pay salary of the hard working employees in time?

BSNL Management should discuss all these with the unions and fulfil the responsibility entrusted upon them. Government should give all support to revive BSNL, instead of their full fledged support to Reliance Jio.

65. PROBLEMS, ACHIEVEMENTS (3)

TELECOM FACTORY COMMITTEE

For About one century it was the P & T Workshops, later called Telecom Factories, which manufactured and supplied many equipments, including Trunk Boards to P and T Department. Total seven Telecom Factories situated at Calcutta (Alipore), Gopalpur, Kharagpur, Jabalpur, Richai, Bhilai and Bombay. After initiation of neo-liberalisation policy in 1990s, government  started purchasing from outside, starving these factories. There was a move to close Kharagpur Factory, on pressure from Tata, whose factory was nearby and who wanted space for expansion. BSNLEU met Communications Minister Shri Dayanidhi Maran on 13^th July 2004 along with Com. Basudeb Acharya M.P. and requested that instead of closing, mobile towers be manufactured from there. It was agreed and manufacture of towers started.

The V Central Pay Commission in 1996  recommended that either all the telecom factories should be closed  or they should be privatized. These telecom factories were all in important industrial areas and covering about 50 to 200 acres. Many industrial tycoons were eyeing these areas. Met Chairman of the Parliament Consulting Committee on Telecom, Com. Somanath Chatterjee, M.P. and appealed to ensure that these are not handed over or closed. This issue, when brought for discussion in the Consulting Committee, union presented a detailed report and requested for modernization instead of closure or privatization. DOT officers who gave evidence also supported. Committee recommended on the same lines and Telecom Factories continued to work.

Poor condition of  Telecom Factories and the need to modernize and manufacture important items for telecom services were brought as an item in the JCM Meeting held on 30^th July 2007 by Staff Side. It was also suggested that a Joint Committee of Staff Side and Official side visit theses factories and submit its report. Accordingly a committee consisting of Shri R.P.Nigam, DDG(TF) and V.A.N.Namboodiri, Secretary, Staff Side, was constituted and asked to visit all TFs and submit report.

All the TFs were inspected by the Committee during October – November 2007. First visit was to Jabalpur TF on 5^th October. General Manager of  TF along with staff and union leaders numbering more than hundred gave us a warm welcome at the TF gate. After a light breakfast, visited all units of the factory, one after another. The Civil Superintending Engineer was  present. Microwave Towers, Galvanization shed, Dispensary, Tiffin room, Canteen, Library, manufacturing units, surroundings – all places visited.

Employees are working under very risky condition. Safety equipments are almost nil and risk is too much, especially in the galvanization unit etc. Scraps worth crores of rupees are dumped in the compound. Trees have grown even on the road inside the walls of the compound and the entire area seems like a forest. Risky to go up the watch towers. Toilets very dirty. Canteen also. Food for workers has to be improved. Manufacture of tower etc. below target.

Discussed with Union Circle Secretary and other workers. They told the surprising news that for many years, no senior officer had come to the TF and they are happy that a senior officer and Union General Secretary have come to visit the Factory.

In Kharagpur Factory, Towers are manufactured. After manufacturing, they    have to be galvanized. There were towers galvanized by the TF as also galvanized by private companies. While the towers galvanized by TF were shining, the others were almost black since due process was lacking. Questioned why all towers should not be galvanized from TF itself and directed accordingly.

In another factory, we saw lengthy iron plates and rail pieces, which can be used, along with scrap materials. When asked about it, the officers could not answer. Useful materials were taken and put in the store.

Within two months the committee visited all the seven factories. Everywhere union leaders, officers and workers gave full co-operation and explained what is needed to modernize and improve the TFs. These visits were used to hold union meetings also with good participation of workers, even belonging to other unions, though their number was very less. Under the leadership of Com.Sisir Bhattacharjee, veteran leader of Factory Workers, they were well organized.

The Committee prepared a detailed report and submitted to the National Council and discussed. Even though only about ten percent of the recommendations were implemented,  that itself was sufficient to infuse a new wave of energy and activity  in the factories.

DOT-BSNL-BSNLEU COMMITTEE

On many issues of the BSNL and its workers, final decision is to be taken by DOT, as BSNL is a fully owned government company as also that it was formed from a government department. Full autonomy was never given to BSNL Management and approval of DOT was required in many issues. This was creating a lot of difficulties in settling  issues of the workers. This was brought to the notice of Shri A.Raja, Communications Minister,  for intervention and settlement. According to his direction, a Committee was formed on 30^th August 2007 to discuss such important issues for settlement.  The Committee called DOT-BSNL.BSNLEU Committee consisted of DDG (SR), DDG(SU), DDG(Estt), and DDG(TF) of Department of Telecom, DDG(SR) of BSNL and General Secretary of BSNLEU, V.A.N.Namboodiri. Meetings were held every week for about two months and a lot of contentious issues settled or entrusted to BSNL for decision. A few of those issues are mentioned below:

1. Delay in absorption of employees in BSNL from DOT, due to pending disciplinary proceedings. After discussion assured immediate action.
2. Demand of BSNLEU for bonus of Rs.10,000. BSNL is authorized to take decision.
3. BSNL is entrusted to take decision on the demand of ‘Prothhasan Batha’ to workers in naxal affected areas.
4. Deposit in Central Government Employees Insurance Scheme will be returned the employees.
5. Pension anomaly of those employees who rtired from October 2000 to June 2001 will be urgently examines.

Some other issues like the above were discussed and either settled or entrusted  with BSNL for  necessary action.

PERKS COMMITTEE

A Committee to discuss increase in the various perks including allowances, advances etc. were constituted and the following decisions were taken:

1. Transport Allowance will be increased.
2. Special Allowance of Rs. 100 will be paid to employees in unclassified cities.
3. Festival Advance increased from Rs. 1500 to 5000.
4. 250 granted as Food Allowance
5. House Advance amount will be increased to 100 times of the salary.
6. Retirement Grant will be increased from Rs. 1001 to Rs.2001.
7. Personal Loan up to Rs. One lakh will be granted from Nationalized banks to purchase cars, two-wheelers, Computer etc.

It was not easy to settle the demands mentioned above. Hard bargaining and  organizing agitations became necessary. Even to hold JCM meetings in time much pressure had to be put.  (to be continued).

64. PROBLEMS, ACHIEVEMENT (2)

WAGE REVISION IN BSNL

The settlement about conversion from CDA to IDA pay scales with effect from 1^st October 2000 and consequent benefits to the workers have already been mentioned earlier. The next wage revision in PSUs was due with effect from January 2007, both to those whose 5 year Revision was made in 2002 and 10 year revision in 1997.

As per recommendations of the II Pay Revision Committee (PRC), executives of central PSUs, including BSNL, were granted pay revision with 30% fitment. Wage revision of non-executives is on the basis of negotiation and settlement. BSNLEU, recognized union, demanded for early wage revision. Leaders of Central Public Sector Trade Unions (CPSTU) met Prime Minister and demanded early decision in all PSUs. It had its effect in BSNL. The negotiations on wage revision started.

BSNLEU called all non-executive unions in BSNL to discuss and decide the strategy and demands in the wage negotiation as was done earlier, but NFTE and FNTO were not willing to participate. They seemed to be more interested in failure of the negotiation, probably with the next Membership Verification in mind. They tried to create many hurdles in wage negotiation.

At this stage, management imposed a condition that union should accept VRS, if wage negotiation is to start. BSNLEU rejected the condition, organized demonstration and dharna in front of the corporate office. Met Communications Minister. Management was compelled to withdraw the pre-condition and start negotiations. 50% DA was merged with pay.

Central Executive Committee of the union held at Kochi formed a committee to study and prepare a memorandum on our demand on pay revision. The report prepared was discussed with our partner unions in the United Forum. The negotiating committee from union side included representatives from all unions in the United Forum, which were our alliance partners. Demand for pay revision in five years was not accepted by management. Management tried to delay negotiations stating that the company was in loss.

It was only after the unions affiliated to United Forum headed by BSNLEU, went on a two day successful strike on 19-20 May 2009 that serious discussion started. Another strike on 19-20 against   lethargic attitude and non-cooperation of management. 

NFTE and FNTO demanded the management that they were prepared to accept whatever Management was proposing. They submitted letters from hundreds of employees to that effect. It was intended to derail the discussion, but BSNLEU stood firm on the demands. After grueling and detailed discussion wage revision agreement was signed between the management and the recognized union.

Though agreement was signed on 15^th January 2010, BSNL did not approve it pointing out many objections. At last it was sent to DOT for approval on 10^th March 2010. Against further delay in DOT, General Secretaries of United Forum led by BSNLEU gave notice for indefinite hunger strike with effect from 12^th April. Discussions were held with Secretary DOT and Communications Minister. In the discussions held with Minister, he gave direction to management to issue the orders within 15 days. Accordingly orders on pay revision were issued on 7^th May 2010 by the BSNL Management.

What are the main achievements of the wage revision?

1. The lowest pay scales of Rs.4,000 – 5,800 was increased to Rs. 7,760 – 13,320. The highest pay scales increased from Rs. 8,570 – 12,245 to Rs. 16,370 – 30,630.
2. 30% fitment.
3. Annual increment 3% of the new pay scale.
4. Stagnation increment will be 3%. 3 Stagnation increment after every two years.
5. One additional increment @ 3% on promotion.
6. HRA and other allowances
7. A new scheme will be worked out for Bonus.
8. Pension as per Rule 37-A of CCS (Pension ) Rules 1972 from Central government.
9. Orders with effect from 01-01-2007.

Comrades P.Abhimanyu, P.Asoka Babu, R.Venkat Raman, V.Subburaman, Suresh Kumar and other comrades in the committee gave valuable contribution in the negotiation.

It was only through continuous struggles, including two successful strikes, that a beneficial agreement could be signed. The wage expense in the earlier year was about Rs.8,000 which rose to about Rs. 14,000 crores, despite the fact that many employees had retired. One of the best wage revision of telecom employees so far.  An increase of about 40% in the wage bill. Further, the workers got a good amount as arrears due w.e.f. 01-01-2007.

Telecom employees all over the country accepted the wage revision as a great victory. It was an appreciation of the strong and effective stand and struggles organized by BSNLEU.

Loans from PSU Banks

Since there was acute delay and much difficulty in getting various loans from BSNL, BSNLEU put the demand that arrangements be made with the PSU Banks for taking loans. A Joint Committee of Official side and Staff Side were constituted. Com.P.Abhimanyu was the staff member. Management proposal to include private banks was rejected by staff side. First discussions were held with Canara Bank and Corporation Bank. Agreement was reached for taking various loans for construction / purchase of house, car, two wheeler, Personal loan, loan for natural disaster etc.  

Change of Designation of cadres

There were about 70 cadres and separate designations for them when BSNL was formed. This was due to the unscientific and irregular way of naming designations to the new cadres formed due to the requirement of the developing services and technology. After detailed discussions the designations of many cadres were changed as demanded. However, it took some more years to change the designation of TTA to Junior Engineer.  (to be continued)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROBLEMS, ACHIEVEMENTS (1)

As pointed out earlier, in all membership verifications from the Second Verification in 2004, BSNLEU won with good majority despite some of the allies, including FNTO left the alliance. There existed a lot of important problems without settlement for years along with the special problems arisen due to corporatization. Small issues could be discussed with officers and settled. But major issues are usually taken in the National Council of the Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM). There will be 14 representatives from the recognized union and almost that number of officers. Chairman was the Director (Human Resources Development), who is a Member of BSNL Board. The meeting is to be held every three months, but during the previous more than two years only six meetings were held.

As Cabinet Secretary is presiding in the National Council of JCM of Central Government Employees, CMD of BSNL should have been the Chairman of BSNL JCM.  This was raised in the first meeting itself by the newly constituted Staff Side. But management was not prepared to change the existing system which started two years back and was agreed to by the then staff side. This system created a lot of difficulties, since no concrete decision could be taken on many of the issues as the Chief Executive was not present. Management utilized this situation to delay decisions in JCM.

VRS decision scrapped

 The first meeting after the second verification (7^th meeting including the earlier meetings), was held on 25^th January 2005. After introduction, welcome etc., I raised the issue that the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) approved by the last JCM meeting should be scrapped forthwith, since it is completely against interests of BSNL as well as workers. Management contended that it was agreed to by the earlier recognized union (NFTE). We told that BSNLEU is now the recognized union and we will oppose this anti-worker decision tooth and nail. Management was compelled to accept our demand and drop the VRS. A decision of the earlier JCM meeting.

Supply of HMT Watch to staff

Considering the growth of BSNL and increased profit due to introduction of mobile service and hard work of employees, staff side demanded that HMT Wrist Watches be supplied free to all the employees. Though opposed first, management agreed afterwards. A Committee of Management and Staff Side, represented by me, was constituted for the purpose. Management was interested in negotiation with private watch companies, but I strongly opposed and firmly asserted that it should be from HMT, another PPSU. HMT was in financial difficulty and it would be a help to it. The committee had hard bargaining with Directors of HMT and agreement was signed in August 2006. Accordingly golden plated good quality watches with BSNL logo was supplied to all. Management side wanted separate watches for Board Members, executives, non-executives etc. We strongly opposed the proposal and told that no discrimination on status or pay scales. Only two types of watches, one for men and other for women – nothing more than that. That was also agreed. Three lakh watches were supplied and HMT was benefitted. HMT Unions thanked BSNLEU for the deal.

Management might have learnt that when all employees got the gift, Secretary Staff Side, who raised the demand, could not get it since he was a retired employee. When went to meet Shri S.D.Saxena, Director (Finance) one day, he took two HMT watches, one gents and one ladies, from his table and offered the same to me  as gift. I thanked him for his generous offer, but stated that I cannot accept the same as I am not eligible as per the orders, being a retired person.

In the next All India Conference of BSNLEU, Com.C.K.Gundanna, Circle Secretary, Karnataka, presented me a same model of HMT watch purchased from HMT with receipt of the same. BSNL Director was present. When attending FNTO All India Conference, Shri K.Vallinayagam, GS FNTO, also presented me with a watch. Management representative was there also.

Management might have felt embarrassed. In the next meeting of the JCM National Council, Management presented HMT watch to all Staff Side members, including me. Thus they solved the problem.

Five Promotions in Service

Another demand raised was that all employees should get at least five promotions in service, after every six years. Some cadres were getting two promotions, some were getting one and many were not getting even a single promotion. Though demand of two promotions while in service was agreed to during DOT days after a lot of struggle  since 1978 to 1991 and also agreeing for reduction of staff etc. by the then the recognized unions NFTE and FNTO,   there were still many cadres who were deprived of the same like staff of Telecom Factory, Stores etc. The first promotion was after 16 years and second after 26. Though 10% of those who got second promotion had eligibility to get a third promotion, most did not get it due various reasons.

Management was completely opposed to the suggestion of further promotions. In the JCM Committee constituted on this demand, management representatives put all kind of obstacles. It was only after years of hard bargaining and more than one strike that four promotions were agreed. Even in the last moment obstacle was created. Secretary of the Committee, GM(SR) Shri Shakeel Ahamed, who was very much against BSNLEU and close to OPG, created various obstacles in the committee, not to come to any  agreement. Hence decision delayed for years. At last date was fixed for signing the agreement on 30^th October 2008.  All other members were present and signed, but he was absent and did not reach even after hours. The tactics was not to get  agreement signed before ensuing membership verification, to deny its  benefit to BSNLEU.

I discussed with other members of  Staff Side and went and sat in the room of Director (HR) Shri Gopal Das, stating that I will  continue to sit there till  agreement is got signed by GM(SR). Things moved fast. Shakeel Ahamed had already left for his home in U.P.  The signed copy of agreement was sent by fax  to him with directions to sign it and return by fax. Within two hours the signed copy was got back. Many employees later asked why there are fax markings in the agreement.

Even after agreement, hurdles were created and issue of orders  delayed. BSNLEU was compelled to meet Communications Minister Shri A.Raja. The same day, 23^rd March 2010, orders were issued. 

According to agreement and orders, all officials will get promotions after every eight years. Some concessions were there for  first promotion for those recruited in DOT. Though agreement was signed only on 30^th October 2008,  promotions were to be implemented with retrospective effect from October 2004. Eligible to officials retired up to 01-04-2008. No sanctioned posts required for these promotions. No test or examination. SC/ST officials will get relaxation in service. One increment along with promotion.  All those cadres which did not have any single promotion in service, also will get all four promotions. In the prevailing circumstances, it was a great achievement. There was a fifth promotion, but it took further years to settle the same.

LIC Group Insurance Scheme

BSNLEU demanded that Group Insurance Scheme should be implemented for employees. Negotiation started with LIC in which BSNLEU was a party. In getting the premium reduced including risk factor as also concluding the agreement with LIC,  assistance was received from Com. Venugopal, then General Secretary of AIIEA. This was the biggest Group Insurance Scheme in the world with more than 3 lakh employees involved.

Works Committee

As per demand of BSNLEU, Works Committees, with representatives from Management and Recognised Union were constituted at All India, Circle and Divisional levels to discuss about improvement of services, modernization and other such matters. Orders were issued on 9^th October 2007, after much persuasion. It helped  improvement of the services.

Guidelines for Transfers

Transfer was always  a tool for  management to harass  workers as also to favour some others. BSNLEU discussed the matter with  Management and got issued clear guidelines, so that transfers will be ordered without favour or malice. Though violated now and then by some officers, generally these instructions were implemented. (to be continued).

62. SECOND MEMBERSHIP VERIFICATION AND VICTORY

After getting recognition consequent to membership verification, NFTE, instead of trying to settle problems of the workers, were more interested in attacking BSNLEU, its leaders and workers. It tried to destabilize BSNLEU through many crooked ways. Eight Circle Secretaries of BSNLEU were got transferred with the connivance of management. Even ordinary members were got transferred to distant places. Pressurized management not to meet and discuss with BSNLEU leaders.

But it was not easy for management to ignore BSNLEU, which got majority in 7 circles and was the second biggest union with only slight difference in the votes with the first union. Union office-bearers made it a routine to meet the officers, give letters and discuss matters with them. Many issues were settled at all India level. But management will not reply letters and BSNLEU is not recognized. No seat in the JCM.

With determination to win in the next membership verification, preparations were started early. Discussed with S/Shri K.Vallinayagam and Thomas John, leaders of FNTO, which got 13% votes in the membership verification and was in the third position. They also were opposed to the agreements being made by the recognized union, bypassing the interests of the workers. Both the unions understood that NFTE had to be defeated, if the workers’ interests are to be safeguarded. Discussion took place and it was decided to form alliance for contesting in the second membership verification. The alliance was called United Forum with Vallinayagam as Chairman and VAN as Convener. Though names of FNTO and other alliance unions will be in the ballot paper, their members will vote for BSNLEU and seats in JCM will be shared.

Date of membership verification was notified on 26^th July, to be held on 1^st December 2004.  Four full months were there. This time was utilized to hold conventions and meetings in all the circles, jointly by the alliance unions, wherever they existed. Covered almost all the districts in the country during the period of these two membership verifications. Three or  four meetings in a day with the evening meeting in a big town /city with vide publicity and participation. BSNLEU office bearers and workers were in the forefront. Just like political parties, we had prepared our election manifesto with the important demands to be settled and exposed the wrong agreements made by the recognized union, NFPTE. One encouraging fact was that even members of other contesting unions, including that of NFTE, were there to hear us. After returning from the tours, we were sure that we will win this time with good majority.

Membership verification was held on 1^st   December 2004. Out of 2,83,919 non-executive employees, 2,62,988 voted. BSNLEU got 1,39,827 (53% of votes casted). An increase from 90,000 to 1,40,000 despite reduction of employees within the last two years. Great victory. NFTE got only 30%. The number shows that not only BSNLEU and its alliance, but also many NFTE members might have voted for BSNLEU. Our campaign had its effect.

After working without recognition for about 14 years since 1991, in DOT and BSNL, it was only with the hard work, sincerity and dedication of the thousands of active workers and leaders that BSNLEU got number one position and recognition. The alliance partners’ contribution was also there. All of them sincerely worked very hard to achieve the victory.

After getting recognition, BSNLEU ensured seats for all the alliance unions in the JCM. Though BSNL Management was reluctant to give seats to alliance partners, the strong stand taken by the union, settled the same. Alliance partners were happy since they got comparatively more seats than their votes. BSNLEU kept its words. FNTO President Thomas john became  the Leader and myself the Secretary of the JCM Staff Side. NFTE lost its recognized status. Many employees who were with NFTE only because of the recognized status shifted to BSNLEU, once it got recognition.

After verification, I put a suggestion to the GM (SR) to publish a book containing the orders etc. on verification and how it was conducted in BSNL. It was published along with introductions by both  OPG and myself.

It was at this time that the Railways decided to conduct membership verification through secret ballot.  Com.Chaubey, Secretary General, AIRF, visited my residence twice to enquire and find out how the verification was conducted. Gave him all the details and instructions issued. A copy of the book on verification published by BSNL was also handed over. He later told that it helped much in conducting verification. (to be continued)

 

 

 

 

 

 

MEMBERSHIP VERIFICATION

BSNL Management decided to conduct membership verification for non-executive unions to find out the majority union for grant of recognition.  Since formation of BSNL, recognition to the existing unions were cancelled and there was no recognized union.

Meeting was held with all the unions in the presence of the Chief Labour Commissioner (CLC), to discuss and decide modality of verification. One issue was whether verification should be conducted as per ‘Check off’ or ‘Secret Ballot’ system. NFTE suggested ‘check off’ system. BSNLEU demanded ‘secret ballot’ pointing out the manipulation, favouritism by officers  etc. in the earlier verification. CLC agreed and  decided that the membership verification will be by secret ballot only. All the newly registered unions applied for participation in the verification. They were given election symbols as suggested by them.

The union with maximum membership was NFTE. Although KG Bose group had majority in E.III Union, this was changed in the new set up with unions formed with all non-executive unions. The big majority for OPG group in E.IV Union turned the table in its favour. Considering this disadvantage, BSNLEU made election understanding with three comparatively small unions viz. Telecom Employees Progressive Union (TEPU), SC/ST Employees Association and BSNL Workers Rashtriya Union (WRU). The understanding was that the names of these unions will be in the ballot paper, but their members will vote for BSNLEU.

Leaders and workers of BSNLEU actively utilized the available time to tour,  hold meetings and meet the workers for getting maximum support and vote. Continuous tour programmes, day and night included. Effort to make a change  from an unrecognized union to a recognized union. As General Secretary, BSNLEU, toured almost all the states. All CHQ office-bearers were also on tours, attending many meetings.

General Manager (SR) Shri R.N.Prabhakar was the Chief Returning Officer. Since this was the first Membership Verification in BSNL, there were many doubts being raised now and then on which decisions were to be taken. We discussed these issues for taking the correct decision. My continued interactions were appreciated by the CRO.

Polling was on 25^th September 2002. About 3 lakh voters. 2250 polling stations. About 10,000 officials including Presiding Officers, Polling Officers etc. Ballot boxes from  Election Commission. About 750 Labour Officers as observers. Arrangements just like in a General Election.

Voting completed without any untoward incident. The counting to be made at District /Circle level and result to be announced on 28^th September at Kidwai Bhawan,  where offices of both MTNL and BSNL function. Representatives of Unions, BSNL Management and Chief Returning Officer present. When the counting in a circle is completed, the result will be intimated to CRO and the same will be exhibited in the big board prepared for the same so that all can watch and note down, if necessary.  The first results, mostly from small circles, were all in favour of BSNLEU. O.P.Gupta, who was sitting there along with others became worried and went away and sat in another room. He might have been afraid of another defeat, after Bhopal AIC.  BSNLEU was leading comfortably in votes till last, when results of only two –thee circles were to be received. But these were big circles like Maharashtra and Gujarat. In Maharashtra NFTE got 18,568 votes while BSNLEU received only 2854. This changed the balance. But results were not announced then and there, since there were cases in court, as also results from some circles were not very clear.

It was on 1^st October 2002, during the celebration of the second foundation day anniversary of BSNL, where BSNL Management / officers, union representatives etc were there, that  Chief Returning Officer with results arrived. NFTE was declared as the first union with 1,05,209 votes and BSNLEU second union with 89,486 votes. 35% and 30% of total votes.

Interesting fact was that, both  CRO as well as CMD and other officers congratulated BSNLEU, though it got only  second position . All of them had thought that NFTE will win with a very big difference. The advance of BSNLEU was taken note  by all.

BSNLEU got majority of votes in 9 circles as also more or less votes in all the 35 circles. NFTE, though got first position all over, got nil votes in two circles and 3 and 11 votes in two other circles. NFTE which claimed about 1,40,000 members got only 1,05,00 votes, whereas BSNLEU which had only  about 70,000 members got about 90,000 votes. All understood how where the tide was moving.

In DOT, two major Federations, NFTE and FNTO, were granted recognition and seats in JCM were shared by them. In the same way, the first two unions were to be granted recognition and seats allotted in the JCM. BSNL Management was also not against it. But NFTE strongly opposed grant of recognition to second union and threatened management that it will go to court if second union is granted recognition. Instead of taking  correct decision, BSNL Management did not grant recognition to BSNLEU.

NFTE had to pay a big price for its wrong approach. From the second verification onwards BSNLEU got first position and recognition. NFTE’s recognition was lost. It never got the first position afterwards and had to content without recognized status and without seat in JCM. It was only after BSNLEU took up the case for grant of recognition to the second union that NFTE got recognition after about 10 years.