60. BSNL IS BORN

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) was formed on 1^st October 2000, months before it was proposed to be, as agreement to that effect has already been reached with the three Federations.

The inauguration function was held near the gate in front of  Sanchar Bhawan, headquarters of Telecom Department. Communications Minister in Vajpayee Government, Shri Ram Vilas Paswan, inaugurated. DOT Officers, other prominent persons and union leaders were present. I was sitting in front of the audience, near the dais.

Immediately after the function was over, press reporters surrounded and started posing questions to me like ‘Why you, who have been strongly opposing corporatisation and have organised many strikes against it, are participating in this function?’ Minister was present there. Perhaps he might have remembered his address in the dharna organised by       E.III Union a few years back before Sanchar Bhawan, along with Com. Susheela Gopalan M.P. and other leaders.  My reply to the question was simple: ‘Even an illegitimate child when born, has got to be cared for.’ Minister as well as press reporters laughed.

In addition to ITI, MTNL and VSNL, one more PSU has been formed in telecom sector. A lot of problems were certainly to arise in connection with corporatisation of the telecom services, so far run by the government. A company will give priority to profit and loss more than efficiency of the services. Stiff competition will have to be faced from private operators.

Changes were inevitable in the service conditions of employees as also in union structure, resulting from shift to the public sector. Rules of recognition will be different. A lot of changes were going to come, for which neither government, BSNL management nor workers were not well prepared. Such was the haste with which BSNL was formed. Probably, the government wanted to form BSNL immediately after the agreement as they were not sure what will happen, if the same was delayed.

Formation of BSNL Employees Union

Consequent to formation of BSNL, recognition granted to the unions and federations were nullified. E.III (N) union had no recognition even before. Management stipulated that instead of the existing unions formed on the basis of government rules, new unions as per Trade Union Act should be formed and registered with Trade Union Registrar.

While separate unions for Officers, Class III and Class IV Employees existed earlier, now unions in the PSU will be for Executives and Non-executives. E.III (N) Union took initiative and consulted some of the class III and IV unions for formation of a Non-executive union.

Following unions agreed to form a joint non-executive union in BSNL: E.III(N) (General Secretary – V.A.N.Namboodiri), T.III ( GS – P.S.Raman Kutty), Telecom Administrative Union (GS- Pabithra Chakraborty), Civil Wing Employees Union (GS- S.Killivalavan), Telecom Factory Industrial Workers Union (GS – Sisir Bhattacharjee), Indian Telecom Employees Union (GS – V.Gopal), Circle Unions of E.IV Union in Kerala (CS – K.Raman), W.Bengal (CS – Dilip Das) and  Assam ( CS – J.N.Mishra). A Convention was decided to be held for this purpose.

Accordingly All India Convention was held at Visakhapatnam on 21-22 March 2001. Hundreds of workers participated from unions proposed to be merged in the new union.  In the presence of CITU All India President Com.E.Balanandan, NFPE General Secretary Com.K.Adinarayana, General Secretary AIIEA Com.N.M.Sundaram and other respected leaders, BSNL Employees Union (BSNLEU) was formed on 22^nd March 2001. It was significant that the date coincided with the death anniversary of the great working class leader Com.A.K.Gopalan, who was always the guide and well-wisher of  P and T unions. Office-bearers with J.N.Mishra as President and V.A.N.Namboodiri as General Secretary were elected with inclusion of leaders of all  unions. Comrades Sisir Bhattacharjee and Moni Bose were elected as Patrons. Thus BSNL Employees Union was born.

Workers enthusiastically welcomed formation of BSNLEU. Circle, District and Branch Unions were formed by holding  conventions of all merged unions at concerned level and electing office-bearers.

BSNL Employees Union was registered in Delhi on 15^th June 2001 with No. 4896 /2001. It was the first union in BSNL registered in Delhi. 

Pay Revision of employees

The First Central Pay Commission recommendations were implemented from 1946, Second from 1960, Third from 1974, Fourth from 1986 and Fifth from 1996. The next pay revision was expected from 2006. Calculation of DA is done on the basis of cost of living index.

In Public Sector DA is calculated on the basis of Industrial DA. In many PSUs, Pay Revision is done in five years, while in some others it is 10 years. Last Pay Revision was in 1997. Next, either in 2002 or 2007.

The question naturally arose. When the Pay Revision will take place and whether it should be on CDA or IDA pay scale? BSNL Management called all the unions to discuss the same. There was no recognised union or federation, since membership verification was not conducted in BSNL. All unions were treated as non-recognised and equal.

Before discussing with management, unions met and discussed.  O.P.Gupta suggested that the CDA scales can continue with a uniform additional Rs. 1,500 for all employees. This was part of the agreement made between the Federations and DOT while agreeing to corporatisation. This amount will not be calculated for any other purpose, including  for calculating allowances etc. It can be stopped at any moment.

Since, employees have been transferred to the PSU, IDA scales of PSUs which  are higher than the CDA scales should be demanded. was my suggestion as President of the meeting. All except OPG supported. Even Com. Jagan, Asst. General Secretary of  Vichare Union, suported stating that ‘though Guptaji is my leader, on this issue I am supporting Com.Namboodiri’s view’. At last, it was unanimously decided that we should demand IDA scales.

I was entrusted with the task of preparing the Memorandum including the pay scales, allowances etc. After going through agreements in various PSUs, including that of MTNL, memorandum was prepared, which after discussion and modification by the unions were presented to  management.

Detailed discussion took place with the management and agreement reached. Instead of the lowest scale of Rs. 2,550 it was agreed for Rs.4,000. Highest scale was fixed as Rs. 8570-12,245, instead of Rs. 6500- 10,500. Without another CPC or Pay Revision Committee, this increase was achieved. All the existing increments in lower scales were upgraded to higher increments of the new pay scales. This resulted in much increase in pay packet.

Workers were happy. Just like in any agreement, here also was an anomaly. Due to increase  in increment amount some of the senior officials, who have  just got promoted got less pay than their juniors who had many increments in the lower grade. This anomaly could not be removed, despite several attempts. Workers appreciated the important role taken by BSNLEU in the pay revision agreement. 

It was at this time that Communications State Minister Shri Tapan Sikdar called for a meeting of Welfare Committee. Management officers and all unions were present. Put certain demands including payment of pension and other benefits to the retired employees without delay. My suggestion was that all the employees retiring on superannuation should be given a reception by the top officer of the station. All payments including leave encashment, Gratuity, Provident Fund, salary of the last month etc as also pension orders, a brief case and shawl as also an appreciation letter should be given along with an amount of Rs.1,000 as a token of appreciation. Minister fully agreed with the suggestions adding that instead of Rs.1,000, Rs. 1001 would be given. Jokingly he added that Mr. Namboodiri, a south Indian, may not be aware of the importance of 101, 501, 1001 etc. in gifts. The gift was increased to Rs. 5,001 later. This assurance ensured that the retirees got all their claims settled at the time of retirement time itself. (to be continued).  

59. SUSTAINED STRUGGLES AGAINST CORPORATISATION

Government started initial preparations for corporatisation of DOT services as the first step towards privatisation. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) was formed for providing telecom services in the major cities of Delhi and Mumbai. Since it was expected that better salary will be received, there was no opposition from the employees. Overseas Communications under DOT was converted to Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited (VSNL), another PSU.

Next step proposed by government was to form another telecom PSU for providing services in the entire country, except in Mumbai and Delhi, where MTNL was the service provider. Recognised Federations viz. NFTE and FNTO took a soft approach to this move on the basis that this was a policy decision of the government, which need not be opposed.

However, sensing the seriousness and genuine apprehension of the workers, E.III / E.III (N), T.III, Administrative Unions along with SNEA opposed the corporatisation move and organised agitational programmes. Since Bhopal AIC, such struggles were continuously decided and implemented.

Against the recommendations of the Athreya Committee to corporatize and privatise telecom services, one day strike was organised on 31^st December 1993 and got assurance from  government that the recommendations will not be implemented.

One day strike on 23^rd May 1994 was organised against the decision of the government to grant licence for providing mobile services to private companies as per National Telecom Policy – 1994. A series of agitational programmes were organised including Protest Demonstrations on 5^th July, submission of Memorandum to the Prime Minister and State Governors on 19^th July and Protest Dharna on 29^th July 1994.

A decision to go on Indefinite Strike taken from 17^th August 1994 was deferred by the three Federations on the plea that Communications Minister Shri Sukhram has given certain assurances. In fact, there was no concrete assurance. Hence, E.III and similar minded unions organised massive dharnas on the same day on which strike was to start.

A complete strike took place on 23^rd January 1995 jointly called by the three Federations  and Unions against the decision of the government allowing private companies to start pilot projects.

Unfortunately, the Federations withdrew from future struggles. In such a circumstance, E.III union took initiative in forming the Door Sanchar Sangharsh Samithi (National Action Committee) with about 10 unions including unions in Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) and continued the struggle against corporatisation. I was elected as  Convener of the joint front.

A National Convention was held at Mavlankar Hall, Delhi, participated by more than 2,000 delegates to discuss about the agitational programmes to be organised against corporatisation. Prominent personalities, Central trade union leaders, experts in telecom sector and Parliament Members including Justice Bhagavathi, Kumaramangalam M.P., A.B.Burdhan (AITUC), Neelotpal Basu M.P., former Secretaries of DOT, S.M.Aggarwal, D.K.Singhal and others addressed. After due discussions, decisions were taken for organising Protest Day on 5^th May 1995 wearing badges and organising dharna, formation of Sangharsh Samithi at lower levels, organise rallies and conventions and also submit a memorandum to the Prime Minister.

It was difficult for the recognised Federations not to ignore these developments and keep silent. Call was issued by the Federations and all unions including those in the Sangharsh Samithi for Indefinite Strike from 19^th June 1995. Three and half lakh employees in the crucial telecom department were going on strike. There was much enthusiasm amongst workers. Workers stood firm against the threat of government to impose ESMA as also arrests, dismissals and terminations. Central trade unions, political leaders and many M.P.s supported the decision to strike and demanded the government to concede the demands.

The strike started with full participation and was a big success. However, the Federations without consulting others negotiated with the government and withdrew from the strike without any important settlement. The same day, government granted licence to the private companies to run telecom services. It became clear that the Federations were not acting up to the expectations of the workers.

Since the Federations have withdrawn the strike, it was not possible to continue the same immediately, though workers wanted it. E.III (N) Union in consultation with other units of Sangharsh Samithi, filed a case in Supreme Court against formation of the corporation proposed by the government. Senior Advocate Smt. Kamini Jaiswal argued our case. Did not charge any fee.  Some NGOs also filed cases. On the other side,  vested interests had arranged a galaxy of top senior advocates. Our cases were dismissed by the Supreme Court.

Organised Sanchar Bhawan March on 26^th October and One Day Strike on 12^th November 1998 as per call of Door Sanchar Sangharsh Samithi against corporatisation.

Government announced National Telecom Policy – 1999 on 23^rd March 1999. Privatisation was the main aim. Provided more relaxations and facilities to private companies. Private companies were allowed to provide international telecom services as pressurised by World Trade Organisation (WTO). Against these anti-people measures a Seminar was organised in Mavlankar Hall, Delhi on 4-5 April 1999 which was addressed by prominent public men Shri Rabi Ray (former Speaker, Lok Sabha), Krishan Patnaik, Prabhat Patnaik, S.P.Shukla, Dr.Ashok Mitra, Prabir Purkayastha, S.M.Aggarwal, D.K.Sanghal, V.A.N.Namboodiri and others.

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) was constituted on 29^th December 1997, with the declared aim of openness and also regulating issues between the various telecom companies. But the real intention was to safeguard  interests of  private companies, as we will see later.

As per call of Sanchar Sangharsh Samithi or National Action Committee (NAC) as it was called, another one day strike was organised on 8^th June  and a two days strike on 24-25 August 2000. Workers massively participated in these strikes, as they knew what will happen if corporatisation takes place.

None of the three  Federations called for these strikes. They kept silent. The massive participation in these strikes, including that of their members made them anxious.  Federations were also compelled to go on agitation. They declared indefinite strike with effect from 6^th August 2000 against corporatisation. This was done even without consulting or intimating the unions which are part of the National Action Committee, while every strike organised by the NAC was informed and consulted well in advance with the Federations. I was away on tour and in train and got the information only on reaching Delhi in the morning of 8^th and after consultation, immediately called for strike.

Federations did not want us to join the strike since they had their own plan. As jokingly or seriously told by Guptaji to me later, our joining the strike would make it difficult for an agreement. They urgently sought for a meeting by the night of 8^th and came to an agreement with the government for corporatisation on assurance of government pension and regularisation of contract workers etc. The strike was withdrawn in the night itself. The Federations cheated the workers who were prepared to continue to struggle against corporatisation.

The door was open to the government for corporatisation of telecom services maintained by DOT. If the Federations had stood firm, it was difficult for the government to continue with corporatisation. As everybody knows, without the support of the 3.5 lakh workforce, converting such a technical department services to a corporation would have been almost impossible. (to be continued).

58. RETIRMENT FROM SERVICE

Retirement from service due on 30^th June 1966. Though correct date of birth is 24^th July 1938, as per official record it is 12^th June 1938, a mistake committed at time of giving date of birth at school.  Retirement age, 58 years.  Completed about 38 years of service.

Transfer to Lakshadweep, approaching court against it, cancellation of transfer orders, and no service and salary for 34 months – all mentioned earlier. Some developments took place afterwards. Shri U.V.Nayak, who was General Manager, Telecom, Kerala, during my transfer to Kavarathi joined as Member (Technical) in Telecom Commission. Shri B.R.Nair, who also worked in Kerala Circle joined as Member (Services). While discussing about reinstatement of a union leader dismissed from Jabalpur Telecom Factory, U.V.Nayak enquired about my loss of salary and dies-non during transfer period. When told that there has been no settlement, he asked why not an appeal to Member (Services)?

Prepared an appeal and submitted to Member (Services) through proper channel in which all facts including my functioning as Circle Secretary during the period, application for Foreign Service, its rejection, judgment of the High Court cancelling the transfer etc. were mentioned and requested cancellation of dies-non, regularisation of  Service and payment of salary. A very strict officer, B.R.Nair asked for detailed report from Kozhikode Office. Orders were issued granting Foreign Service and regularising service for the period, but no salary. (Foreign Service is a facility given to Union office-bearers to be deputed to the union for its work. Salary, pension contribution, leave salary etc. to be paid by the union for the period. This arrangement was agreed by the government to ensure that outsiders are not made office-bearers of the union).

After a few days when met B.R.Nair, he smiled and told that ‘your Kozhikode DM office  is ‘special’. He continued stating that when he wanted documents for proof of my functioning as Circle Secretary, the office had sent bundles of files with details my attending official union meetings, correspondence, agitations etc. When came to Kozhikode, enquired and found what has happened. Shri C.Padmanabhan, Deputy General Manager, who was a union leader earlier, had sent all these documents, in order to ensure that my application is favourably considered. Shri Padmanabhan was Branch President of Union, when I was  Branch Secretary. Shri M.P.Rajan Damodaran, another DGM was the Treasurer. Even after promoted to officer posts, both of them maintained good relations  with union and were much helpful. Incidently C.Padmanabhan was victimised for participation in 1960 strike.

Joined at Kozhikode Telephone Exchange one month back before retirement date, taking leave from the union. Got the chance to work with colleagues and comrades after a period of five years since my shift to Delhi. Same post of Chief Telephone Supervisor. My colleagues helped much in discharging my duties and I was free to certain extend to attend my union work.

Com.K.Kunhutty Master, a close friend and union activist, was also retiring on the same day. Send off party, taking of group photo etc. as usual. Many comrades spoke mentioning their remembrances etc. We both thanked all for the reception. Many comrades came to residence to bid farewell. I did not feel the pain and anxiety that are usual at time of retiring, probably due to full engagement in union activities.

A Reception was organised on 4^th July 1996 at Town Hall, Kozhikode at the initiative of the P and T Co-ordinating Committee. The hall was overflowing with leaders and workers of various service and trade unions. Com. O.Bharathan M.P., Chairman of Kerala Circle P and T Co-ordinating  Committee presided. Com.M.Dasan M.L.A., Chairman Reception Committee welcomed. Mayor of Kozhikode Smt. M.K.Premajam, Com. M.P.Veerendra Kumar, M.P., Com.Binoy Viswam (AITUC), Com.M.Vasu(CITU), Shri Sadiri Koya (INTUC), Com.K.Krishnan (FSETO), Com. K.Raman (Confederation), Com.M.Krishnan (Convener, NFPTE), Com. P.V. Chandrasekharan (CS E.III Union) and other leaders spoke. While speaking, Com.Veerendra Kumar mentioned that he had come directly from Kottakkal Ayurveda Hospital, where he was under treatment, as he could not miss the function considering his close association with me. Shri Sadiri Koya, a very senior INTUC leader stated that he learnt many things about how to function in a trade union from VAN. I knew very well that these comments were made due to their great affection for me.

Garlands were given by leaders of various organisations. I replied thanking all for the reception and presents.  Com.K.R.Sivadas, Convener, Co-ordinating Committee, proposed vote of thanks. Receptions were held at Ernakulum and a few other places.

Donated Rs. 33,000/- to CHQ E.III Union from the amount received as encashment of leave. I had no leave at credit actually. But the Account Officer in charge, as per existing rules, converted my half-pay leave in to full leave and hence allowed encashment.

Great loss – Mother passed away

Mother was staying with me at Kozhikode up to 1985, which was of great help. Her health was deteriorating and she wanted to go home at Perincherry.  Children of Pankajam’s sisters, Rajagopalan, Siva Prasad and Sathyanathan stayed with us now and then for their studies and work.  Also helped looking after the family.

Mother went home and stayed with family of my elder brother Sankaran Namboodiri. Due  to continued union activities, official duties and tours, I could not go home to meet mother as earlier. Used to go once in two or three months. After shifting to Delhi, visits became very rare.

Pankajam phoned me in the early morning of First November 1996 and informed the sad news that mother has passed away. With support of comrades in Delhi, booked the first flight to Kozhikode. Took loan of Rs. 5000 each from Comrades K.K.N.Kutty and O.P.Gupta. Kutty took me to airport in his car. Reached Mumbai at 11.30 hours, but connection flight to Karippur (Kozhikode) was only at 14.30 hours. Reached Kozhikode airport at 16.30 hours where Comrades K.Rajan and K.R.Sivadas were waiting. First went to Kozhikode residence, then along with Pankajam, daughter Mini and brother’s son Dinesh, to Perincherry. Reached home at about 20.00 hours. All family members reached, waiting for me. Many comrades and colleagues from Kozhikode and Kannur had also come.

Saw mother for the last time.  Lying calm and quiet. Difficult to believe that she was dead. Last rites and funeral completed by about 22.00 hours in the same place where father was laid to rest.  Dearest mother passed away, leaving all of us in grief and sadness.

Stayed along with brothers, sisters and other family members for about two weeks till all rituals were over. It was mother who looked all of us since father passed away, exactly thirty years back. Father died on 30^th October 1966 and mother on 1^st November 1996.

I was very sad that I could not be near her when she passed away. A lot of memories. The special love and affection being the youngest child. Hence the chance to drink mother’s milk till 4-5 years. When returning from school, she will be waiting with food. Sometimes even before taking bath, secretly giving tea and snacks. Stay at Calicut looking after our children. When family partition took place, putting her share with mine.  The sad feeling was there that I could not do my share of responsibility to her. Of course she never showed it. Mothers are mothers.

After all rituals, returned to Kozhikode and then to Delhi to union activities. (continued).

57. MARCHING AHEAD WITH COURAGE AND DETERMINATION

Stay and work at Delhi since November 1991 was a continuous struggle for existence and dedicated effort to advance the cause of workers and organisation. Not only at office and residence, but also wherever we were touring, problems were created by vested interests, including department and OPG group. As stated earlier, they could not accept the defeat in Bhopal AIC, after continuous dominance and leadership for about four decades since formation of NFPTE. Disrupted union by submitting parallel list of office-bearers. Membership verification was delayed and stayed through court cases. Utilising the closeness with the administration created all difficulties for the functioning of E.III / E.III(N) Union at all levels. It was a hard fight for existence.

Extreme climate of Delhi is well known. Intolerable heat in summer and intolerable cold in winter. No Air Conditioner, no heater in the residence as well as in office. Very often electricity failure, especially at night. Will go to verandah, sit in the coir cot, but no wind. Sometimes two or three hours. Had to take bath in severe cold water in winter, since no arrangement for hot water. Immediately after bath, dress and wear warm cloth. No money with union or self to purchase water-heater. It was after some years, that these essential facilities could be arranged.

In order to take up  issues of  workers and settle them to the expectation of  members, more man power in office was necessary. I was alone, after Moni Bose shifted to Calcutta. Organisational tours were important. Either Assistant General Secretaries or other office-bearers should be at  headquarters to assist. They will stay in General Secretary’s room.

Accordingly, in addition to the Assistant General Secretaries Comrades Debashish Dutta Gupta, P.Abhimanyu, P.Asoka Babu and P.Appaji, Comrades C.K.Narasimhan, M.P.Kunhanandan, S.R.Nayak, S.C.Bhattacharya, Mihir Dasgupta, G.L.Sheik, S.Chellappa, P.V.Chandrasekharan, S.Gopal, Badri Narayanan, G.Soman, Nikhil Sarkar, M.N.Reddy, K.R.R.Verma, P.Manickamoorthy, R.Muralidharan Nair  and many other comrades came to CHQ availing their own leave, spending money and worked. CHQ could be run effectively only due to their selfless services.

Continuous tours were taken during this period to streamline the organisation, form branch and district unions wherever it did not exist. Met leaders of OPG group and tried to  convince them to return to mother union. Went to homes of many comrades and had detailed discussion. There were many senior comrades who became inactive due to the wrong policy and undemocratic attitude of OPG. Many of them became active again. OPG group in collusion with administration created umpteen difficulties during such tours.

During a tour of Jabalpur, I was meeting workers in telephone exchange along with Com. S.R.Nayak , Circle secretary, M.P.Circle and enquiring about their problems. Heard shouting of slogans from outside “Namboodiri Go Back”. We came out and saw about twenty youngsters demonstrating and shouting slogans. I asked them what is the problem and who they are. They told that they are riksha drivers, belonging to AITUC and they are protesting against one Namboodiri who has come from Delhi, as per direction of their union. When I disclosed my identity, they withdrew from the scene.

Another incident in Patiala, Punjab. No members, no branch there for our union. Along with All India Vice-President Com. Gurcharan Singh, stood near the gate and started a small meeting with the employees who gathered, explaining problems of the workers. Com. M.L.Sharma, Circle Secretary of Punjab (OPG Group), who is a long-time friend of mine, came with a few comrades and sat there. After my speech, he asked many questions to confuse the employees. I answered one by one. When he went, all his followers did not leave. That day itself we could organise a branch there.

When went to Amritsar along with Comrades R.L.Moudgil, CS T.III Union, Gurcharan Singh and some other comrades, District Secretary of OPG group tried to stop us entering the exchange. I was determined to enter and he was forced to give in. Went to the trunk exchange where about 20 to 25 employees were on duty. Told them who I am and requested them to hear me for a few minutes. Spoke on the problems of the workers and organisation. They heard me with interest. Branch Secretary, OPG group, who was there thanked me and told that they all belong to OPG group and will continue so. The interesting thing was that when we visited after a few months, Com. Swaran Singh, our Secretary, told that good number of comrades have joined our branch.

Com.M.Sadanandan of Hubli was a very good leader and organiser, President of the P and T Cooperative Society, who was also connected with some trade unions in the PSUs stationed at Hubli. He had been inactive for some time due to the wrong policy and discrimination by OPG. Went to his house along with other comrades and requested to take active part in the union. He became Circle Secretary of E.III Union, then E.III(N) Union and BSNLEU when it was formed after corporatisation. His yeomen service is always remembered.

Even when most divisions in Rajasthan were with OPG group, Kota was strongly with us. Com.Swarankar, who was a well-known leader has been somewhat inactive for some time. Met him along with other comrades and discussed. He once again became active and gave guidance to our workers and strengthened the organisation.

U.P.Circle under veteran leadership of Circle Secretary Com.R.S.Yadav, was always with KG Bose group. But we did not have any branch union in the major city of Kanpur. Went there along with Com. Yadav and few others from Lucknow, held a meeting under a banyan tree and formed the first branch union. Within no time, other branches were formed and gradually we became the major force.

In the first verification of membership in E.III Union, our loss was mainly due to malpractices as also due to our meagre votes in Maharashtra, a major circle. This has got to be changed. Toured important cities including Mumbai. Met Shri Aravind Sawant, leader of MTNL Karmachari Sangh and Shivasena leader (later M.P. and Central Minister) in his office. We got a good reception. His support was assured. Within years, got majority in Maharashtra. After formation of BSNLEU, he attended AIC of BSNLEU at Mumbai and addressed on our invitation.

Likewise, attended most of the circles and met leading comrades.. Many veteran comrades gave their support.

CHQ was in acute shortage of funds. General Secretary was on loss of pay, since no leave at credit. Union not able to pay salary. The condition of the CHQ employees was worse. For three – four months, salary could not be paid. Printing charges of union journals for about one year was not paid to Gopal Printers. Fortunately, knowing the financial condition of the union, owner of the Press did not insist on immediate payment.

A few words about Shri Narayan Das Kapoor, owner of Gopal Printers. Aged more than 80 years. Will come to his office every day and attend work. When dispute was created by submitting parallel list, O.P.Gupta, former General Secretary, told Kapoor not to print Telecom and Correspondence for new General Secretary Moni Bose, but print for Vichare. Reply given by Kapoor was this : “ For forty years since 1954, I have printed journals for you, when you were the General Secretary. But now the General Secretary is Moni Bose. Though you and I have a long and close friendship, I cannot do a wrong thing. I will print the journals for Moni Bose, who is the GS.”

Funds had to be collected to meet immediate requirements. Quota received from branches was  very less, due to  dispute. The system of deduction of subscription of membership from salary and remitting to the union had not been introduced.

Decided to tour circles for fund collection in September 1996.  First, the southern states. A  convention was held at Kottayam, Kerala, with comrades present from all over the circle. Explained financial difficulties being faced by CHQ and requested for donations. An amount of Rs. 39,000 was received then and there with liberal contributions. Next day convention was at Perundurai near Erode in T.Nadu. Rs. 60,000 received as donation. Three casual labour comrades donated Rs. 2,000 each. Was reluctant to receive such big amount from casual labour, but they told that they have come with their families and it was their decision to donate to the union which is fighting for them. Leader of state government employees who was in the dais also donated a good amount.

Three meetings on third day in Andhra Pradesh circle – at Vishakhapatanam, Vijayanagaram and Sreekakulam. In the first two place got Rs. 10,000 each. Though our branch union was not started at Srikakulam,  meeting was held and some amount was received.

Retuned to Delhi and paid salary of the employees including arrears. Toured other circles and  got donations.

Remembering another instance.  Central Working Committee Meeting at Vadodara, Gujarat. Circle Secretary Com.A.C.Shah donated Rs.5,000 and District Secretary Com.R.T.Sharma donated Rs.25,000 as personal donations. There was good applause.

During this period, toured extensively from North Eastern circles to Gujarat and from Kerala to Kashmir, in trains, buses and motor bikes. Stayed in lodges, homes of our comrades, offices, Dharmasalas, Gurudwaras etc. Will mention about these tours later.

Whatever the hardships and difficulties, our comrades were determined to make all out efforts to strengthen the organisation and to settle the issues of workers. Thousands of comrades dedicated themselves for these activities. We were sure that these sacrifices will not go in vain and there was a better future. Thanks to all these valiant comrades! (TO BE CONTINUED)

56. STRUGGLES AGAINST NEO-LIBERAL POLICIES IN TELECOM

Continuous research and inventions during last two centuries resulted in great advancement in communications sector. Though a little late, India also made advancements, slowly under British rule and fast after independence.

Consequent to collapse of USSR and subsequent pressure from capitalist countries headed by US, the Nehruvian model of ‘Socialist Pattern of Society’ was discarded by Indian rulers. It led to the path of neo-liberal, globalisation, privatisation policy. Started even during the period of Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi. Telecom sector which  was a goldmine for accruing profit was  bifurcated from  P & T Department and made a separate department.

By amending the Indian Telegraph Act 1986 under which the telecommunications services were monopoly of central government, private companies were granted licence for the newly introduced mobile services. At the same time, telecom department was denied the licence. When the issue was raised by unions, the reply from  government was that, ‘if DOT is given permission to start mobile services, the private companies will be doomed’. So it was more important to the government to support  private companies for them to earn profit than giving better and cheaper service to the public.  

Not only licence was given to newly formed private telecom companies, but all support and out of turn concessions were granted to them. To justify licence to private companies, it was argued that it will fetch Rs. 125 crore  for exchequer. By changing to Revenue Sharing System, what the government got was only Rs. 5 crore or so. Of course, crores of rupees were confiscated from the residence of Communications Minister Shri Sukhram and he was charged with corruption. It is well known that corruption is an essential part of capitalist system.

Next step was to privatise the services part of telecom department. But it is not easy to privatise the department or its services part directly. There will be strong opposition. So the tactics adopted was to first convert in to a PSU and then privatise. The National Telecom Policy 1999 (NTP – 1999) was formulated with this idea.

The central trade unions along with federations of central – state government employees have been in the forefront, opposing the neo-liberal policies being implemented by central government since 1990s. The first major strike against these anti-worker policies was organised on 29^th November 1991. Though NFTE was reluctant to be a party, newly elected leadership in E.III Union gave call for strike and participated. In every general strike called by the CTUs since then, E.III Union / E.III(N) Union / BSNLEU fully participated.

E.III Union / E.III(N) Union by bringing together like-minded unions in telecom sector organised serious struggles, including strike,  when the government pronounced the National Telecom Policy 1994, which granted telecom licences to private companies and on similar other occasions. E.III Union took initiative in forming a Co-ordinating Committee by name National Action Committee, which organised sustained struggles against neo-liberal policies being implemented in telecom sector. Unfortunately, both the recognised Federations in Telecom, NFTE and FNTO either opposed such struggles or kept silent without participating. It seemed that they do not want to oppose these anti-worker policies. As Convener of the NAC, got opportunity to meet leaders of the national trade unions, interact and invite them to the many conventions and programmes organised by NAC.

The National Convention held at Mavlankar hall, New Delhi on 25^th August 1993 against globalisation and against the anti-worker policies of the government decided to organise one day strike on 9^th September 1993. 25^th August was decided to be observed as ‘United Struggle Day’ in preparation for the strike. Confederation of CG Employees and Workers directed me to attend the rally on that day at Ahmedabad and Vadodara in Gujarat.

Reached Ahmedabad in the morning by train. Went to Telephone exchange where hundreds of workers including large number of ladies were observing dharna, shouting slogans. Met them and discussed organisational matters. By about 03.00 P.M., the procession started. Thousands of workers, including that of Railways, Postal, Telecom, Income Tax, State government and others marched through the city and reached the place where rally was to be held.

As representative from centre, I was to inaugurate the public meeting. Started speaking in English. Many stood up and demanded “ Hindi mem bolo!” (Speak in Hindi). It cannot be said that I do not know  Hindi. I have passed Pradhamik, Madhyamik, Rashtrabahsha and Visharad examinations conducted by Dakshin Bharath Hindi Prachar Sabha. I had taught Hindi in school when, Hindi teacher was on leave. But never made a speech and was not sure whether I can. Here, there was no escaping. Started speaking in Hindi stating that Hindi is spoken differently in different states and my Hindi is Kerala Hindi. Added that ‘Mera Hindi Dimag ka nahi, dil ka Hindi hai’ ( My  Hindi is of the heart, not of the brain). There was big applause. Got sufficient courage and spoke with confidence. Comrades congratulated after conclusion. That was my first speech in Hindi. Immediately after speech, was taken to Vadodara by car, where also I addressed.

It is very much necessary to speak in Hindi in states where mother tongue is Hindi. They are not worried about grammar or if you use some English words. Meaning is to be understood, that is all. It is applicable to all other languages also. Language is a very strong bond between persons.

Though could speak in Hindi, I am not able to speak in Tamil, Kannada or Telugu, the south Indian languages. Could have learned them, if tried. It would have helped in speaking in their own language. However manages to speak in broken Tamil, when it becomes unavoidable, mostly using Malayalam words. (to be continued)

55. STRUGGLE FOR EXISTENCE

Years after 1994 Thiruvananthapuram All India Conference were a period of disputes, disruptions, court cases and attacks from administration. It was a period of struggle for existence and advancement. In addition, it was a period of struggle against globalisation, privatisation and neo-liberal policies. All these were, in a way, indirectly connected.

First, organisational issues. As stated earlier, DOT did not give recognition to the newly and duly elected office-bearers on the flimsy plea that two lists of office-bearers have been received. Since recognition was not granted, E.III Union approached court, which directed for conduct of verification of membership. OPG group appealed against verification, which was dismissed. Department issued orders for membership verification in E.III Union under ‘check off’ system. Union demanded ‘secret ballot’, pointing out the malpractices inherent in the ‘check off’ system, but DOT did not agree.

Membership verification as per ‘check off’ was conducted. Malpractices, partiality of administration – everything was planned and executed.  Many officers who were handing over the verification form, pressurised employees to vote for Vichare, General Secretary of OPG group.  In the ballot paper, both the names of V.A.N.Namboodiri, GS E.III and M.B.Vichare GS of OPG group were there. Employees will have to mark ‘tick’ against the candidate they support and mark ‘cross’ against the other. In some circles like Maharashtra, Delhi etc.,  the ballot papers given were already having tick mark against Vichare and cross mark against Namboodiri. When employees protested, they were threatened by officers. In A.P.Circle, about 5,000- 10000 line staff employees, who belonged to E.IV union who were not eligible to vote, were allowed to vote in E.III Union verification. All kind of malpractices were done by collaboration between administration and OPG group.

As per DOT orders, Class III employees of both Telephones and Telegraphs were eligible to participate in the membership verification. While employees supporting OPG group voted for Vichare, members belonging to T.III Union, whose votes were to be given to E.III union did not vote and sent all their votes coming more than 8,000 to General Secretary of T.III Union, as directed by him.

The result was not unexpected. Despite all these malpractices, E.III Union got 36,646 votes, while OPG group got  39,985. DOT submitted to the court for permission to grant recognition to OPG group on the basis of this manipulated verification.

E.III union submitted their opposition to the court giving details and evidences of manipulation, favouritism etc. Considering all these complaints as well as the fact that neither has received 35% of total votes, recognition was not granted either to E.III Union or OPG group.

One more Membership Verification

In between, the central government finalised  New Rules for Recognition of Unions in Central Government Departments. The process for verification in Telecom Unions as per the new rules started from 31^st October 1996. Afraid of defeat, both NFTE and FNTO approached courts to stay verification, but failed to get any stay.

Both E.III Union with V.A.N. as General Secretary as well as OPG Group with M.B.Vichare as GS submitted applications for verification in the name of E.III Union. But without any principle or justice, Department accepted the application of Vichare and rejected that of duly elected GS VAN. Department was openly supporting OPG group.

There was strong protest amongst telecom workers against this injustice. Thousands of protest telegrams and resolutions were sent to DOT. Protest demonstrations were organised. But the department did not cancel its wrong decision.

Shri Deva Gouda government was at  Centre, which had support of  Left parties. Met General Secretary CPI(M) Com. Har Kishan Singh Surjeet and informed the situation. He spoke to Communications Minister on 1^st January 1977 about the issue. Minister asked the union to meet him that day itself.

Met Communications Minister Shri Beni Prasad Verma in his office in the evening along with Coms. K.D.M.Tripathi and Treasurer K.M.Pillai. Chairman Shri A.V.Gokak and other members of the Telecom Commission were present in full strength. Presented our case and pointed out the unjustified stand of DOT. Chairman TC, without going in to the merits of the case said that ‘ Mr.Namboodiri is approaching court on every issue. Let him approach court on this issue also’. I could understand that he was unhappy of our approaching court against DOT decisions and getting favourable judgments. There was detailed discussion and Minister was convinced about justification of our stand. He asked, ‘why can’t you apply in another name?’. We said it is not possible since we were the duly elected office bearers of the union. He proposed another alternative that ‘you can apply  in the name of E.III (Namboodiri) Union adding the name of the General Secretary’. He cited the example of Indian National Congress (Indira). We could understand his hint that INC(Indira) in fact was the real Congress. Discussed with the other two comrades and decided to accept the Minister’s proposal, since that would enable us to participate in membership verification.

Submitted application next day itself in the name of All India Telecom Employees Union Class (Namboodiri) (E.III(N) in short). But even after many days, DOT did not take any action on the application. They completely ignored it. There was a rumour that the Minister may not continue. That may be one reason that they did not take any action.

Met Com. Surjeet again, who contacted the Minister. He gave the assurance that immediate action will be taken. Within minutes I was asked by DOT to receive the orders from the DOT office. At last we were allowed to participate in the name of E.III(N) Union. But the verification was continuously postponed as demanded by OPG. At last, orders were issued for reverification from 11^th July 1997.

It was clear that considering the effective dealing of the problems and correct stand taken on all matters, more workers will support E.III (N) with VAN as GS. The indications within few days of verification made it clear that E.III(N) was getting good support. Afraid of defeat, NFTE and FNTO filed cases in various courts one after another against the re-verification on flimsy grounds. Though Madras and Bombay High Courts did not issue stay orders as prayed, Sonipet Civil Court in Haryana issued stay order on case filed by Shri Swaroop Singh, GS of another union. Reverification was stayed.

A case was filed by FNTO in Ernakulam High Court praying that E.III(N) Union should not be allowed to participate in the verification, since it is a caste union as the name ‘Namboodiri’ denotes. We engaged Senior Advocate Shri M.R.Rajendran Nair, who was a former Branch Secretary of E.III Union at Ernakulam and dismissed in the 1968 strike. Justice Abdul Gafoor, in whose court the case came, was a former telecom employee and leader of OPG group. If I remember correct the advocate engaged by FNTO was also a former telecom employee. I raised my doubt with the advocate whether this situation will prejudice our case. He only laughed, meaning that the question was irrelevant. However, Justice  Abdul Gafoor recused and the case transferred to the court of Justice Sankara Subban. Case was heard on and judgment delivered on 17^th December 1999, and dismissed outright.  Com.P.A.Kumaran, Asst. to Advocate M.R.Rajendran Nair and a former union leader of E.III Union and Com.P.V.Chandrasekharan, Circle Secretary, E.III Union helped very much in conducting the case.

By this time, there were some more stay orders from other courts obtained by NFTE. The postponed re-verification was never completed. E.III(N) Union continued functioning without recognition. (to be continued)

54. THIRUVANANTHAPURAM ALL INDIA CONFERENCE – 1994

The judgment of Calcutta High Court directing Department of Telecom to accept Com. Moni Bose as the duly elected General Secretary of E.III Union was hailed by the workers. DOT which was humbled before the judiciary had other sinister plans. Though it issued orders recognising Moni Bose as General Secretary, it also directed the union to conduct its All India Conference within 6 months, which was extremely difficult.  The intention was not to allow Moni Bose to function as General Secretary. However, AIC was also due.

Notice was issued to hold the AIC at Vaikundam Auditorium, Thiruvananthapuram, capital of Kerala, from 9^th to 13^th April 1994. Interestingly, OPG group, without any authority,  issued notice for AIC, to be held at Tiruchirappally, in Tamil Nadu. Despite many court orders, which stopped their disruptive actions, another attempt was being made by issuing this AIC notice. Moni Bose approached court again and it gave direction that the AIC given notice of by Moni Bose to be held at Thiruvananthapuram was the real Conference. Having failed again, OPG group was compelled to cancel their notice for AIC and attend Thiruvananthapuram Conference. 

Reception Committee was formed with Com. Suseela Gopalan, M.P. as Chairperson, Com.P.V.Chandrasekharan, Circle Secretary, as General Convener and Com. G.Sasidharan Achari as Treasurer. The Reception Committee, within the short time made excellent arrangements for holding the Conference in a grand manner.

Many prominent personalities and trade union leaders were part of the Reception Committee. Com. E.M.S.Namboodiripad, first Chief Minister of Kerala and world renowned Communist leader, who was to inaugurate the AIC reached the Conference hall in time, as usual. The hall was full and overflowing with 4000 and odd delegates as also the invitees.

It was at this time that without any provocation some delegates from OPG group started shouting slogans, throwing chairs and breaking glass panels of windows of the Conference Hall. Aim was to disrupt the Inaugural Session to be addressed by Com.EMS. Volunteers intervened and brought order. However, there was some tussle and OPG group walked out shouting slogans. Despite sincere efforts, they did not come back. Later it became clear that this walk out was planned well in advance to disrupt the AIC.

After welcome speech by Com.Suseela Gopalan M.P., Com. E.M.S.Namboodiripad inaugurated the AIC. He pointed out the importance of joint efforts of intellectual workers as well as physical workers to improve the service as well as for betterment of the condition of workers. It can be seen later that the union made all efforts to implement this message and advice. Com. M.K.Pandhe, General Secretary, CITU, Mahakavi Shri O.N.V.Kurup, Com.K.Adinarayana, General Secretary, P.IV Union, O.P.Gupta, SG NFTE and other important personalities addressed.

Sincere effort by President and General Secretary was made to bring back the delegates who walked out, going to their camp, but they refused. The report presented by the GS, audited accounts, organisational matters, problems etc. were discussed and decisions taken. A comprehensive Policy and Programme Resolution was adopted, giving direction to future activities.

AIC elected new office bearers unanimously with Moni Bose as President, V.A.Namboodiri as General Secretary and Com.K.M.Pillai as Treasurer. It was a coincidence that from the same place where I had relinquished the post of Circle Secretary was elected as General Secretary. Due to large number of delegates climbing in to the dias with garlands, shawls etc. to congratulate the newly elected office-bearers, the temporarily constructed dais started sliding down and was somehow kept erect without falling down by volunteers.

While it was to help Com.Moni Bose, General Secretary that I stayed at CHQ after Bhopal Conference now it had become unavoidable to stay at New Delhi as General Secretary. Further, Moni Bose returned to Calcutta also. However, used to come to Delhi for meetings as also for important consultations.

Disruption again

OPG group, who walked out from AIC Thiruvananthapuram, after reaching Delhi, submitted a parallel list of office-bearers, with Com.M.B.Vichare as General Secretary, thus continuing disruption. DOT refused to grant recognition to both lists. It was the realisation that dawned upon OPG group that they can never be in majority in the organisation that they disrupted the organisation. This was a tragedy for the telecom workers. It was most unfortunate that O.P.Gupta himself, who was General Secretary of the union for long 37 years, piloted this disruption violating all democratic traditions.

This was similar to the parallel list given by OPG group in NFPTE in 1971 Calcutta Federal Council. A repeat of such disruption was expected and the workers and organisation were ready to face the situation.

E.III Union urgently held a Central Working Committee at Delhi. In order to strengthen the CHQ, it was decided that Asst. General Secretaries in turn should work at CHQ. Accordingly Com. Debashish Dutta Gupta, P.Abhimanyu, P.Asoka Babu and P.Appaji, AGSs came to CHQ in turn and assisted. CWC decided to organise tours to all circles and streamline the organisation.

Com.N.P.Padmanabhan Passed away

Com.N.P.Padmanabhan, former Secretary, NFPTE, Convener of the P and T Co-ordinating Committee Kerala and the comrade who led the 1968 strike passed away on 5^th March  1994 at Cannanore. He was dismissed in connection with 1968 strike and was reinstated only after Janatha government came to power in 1977.

I had the opportunity to work with him while in Thiruvananthapuram as Circle Secretary and always had the benefit of his advice and guidance. A memorial stands at Payyambalam Beach Cannanore, where his funeral took place. I published a book in his memory two years back on his 24th death anniversary in 2018. (To be continued)

53. FUNCTIONING OF CHQ

Within a few days at Central Head Quarters at New Delhi, our functioning became systematic. After breakfast we will attend to correspondence, telephone calls and prepare letters on issues to be taken with the administration. Lots of telephone calls from our comrades throughout the country, congratulating and enquiring about their long pending important issues.

Preparation of matters for both the journals, ‘Telecom’ and ‘Correspondence’ was an important  work. Matters were to be typed and given to press. Since printing was being done by composing types in the press, proof reading will have to be done two or three times. Sometimes Gopal Printers will send their workers with  proofs and sometimes we will have to go there and do proof reading. It was not an easy job. Journals will have to be ready before day of posting, so that it can be presented to RMS office in time.

After lunch, we start for ‘Sanchar Bhawn’, office of Department of Telecommunications, situated near Patel Chowk  and Parliament. Travel by union’s old car. Since both of us did not know driving, a driver was appointed. There will be some problem with the car almost every day and will have to be repaired. A regular nuisance. At last car was put in shed permanently. We both were on tour and when returned, car was not seen in the shed. We enquired to Guptaji, who said that the useless car has been sold. We remembered that he had told us to sell the same as it was very old, when it was handed over.

Afterwards we used to travel by bus or auto. Metro service not started. There will be so much rush in the bus that it will be very difficult even to get in. Hiring auto was more troublesome. Drivers will not operate meter and will charge much. Since most of the autos were very old, there was every  possibility of breakdown on the way. Then hire another one. It was only after Delhi government prohibited autos with more than 15 years, that situation improved. It used to take about one hour to reach Sanchar Bhawan, due to heavy traffic.

We will first go to room allotted to Staff Side, JCM in the second floor. Make urgent outstation calls, as STD telephones were available. Will meet Secretary, DOT, whose room was directly opposite, if any particular issue was to be discussed. Meet other officers whose rooms are in various floors, hand over the letters and discuss.

By about 18.00 hours most officers will leave. Next we will go to nearby V.P.House, which is the multi-floor government flats allotted to Members of Parliament, where Com.Neelotpal Basu, M.P. (now PBM CPI(M), son-in-law of Moni Bose,  stayed with family. Will have coffee and snacks. Sometimes, dinner also.

At about 20.00 – 20.30 hours will start back to Dada Ghosh Bhawan. Again waiting for bus or auto. Same plight. Will reach DGB by about 21.00 hours or so.  Take dinner, then work in office up to 00.00 hours.

One day when typing letters, Guptaji came. Moni  Bose was not there. He looked at my typing for some time and commented: “Is it the job of All India President to type letters? I had thought that you will contest as General Secretary and Moni as President”. I smiled and replied: “I am a worker and will do any work for the union, including sweeping the office”. I did not miss his sarcasm as well as hidden agenda to create a rift between Moni and me.  But he could never succeed. He could probably not understand the very close bond between Moni and me which had continued for decades with mutual respect and love. In fact, Moni Bose had suggested me for General Secretary post stating that he will contest for President as he was existing Vice-President and me as GS as I was the AGS. My suggestion that as leader of our group, he was the proper person to contest against OPG was accepted by our comrades. It also was the correct decision. It was at that time that Com.Moni took assurance from me that I also will stay at Delhi, in case we are elected.

As required by Circle Secretaries, both of us attended many meetings in various circles, expressed our view points on the demands to be raised and on strengthening the organisation. Good support was getting even from those comrades who have opposed us in the AIC. We were visiting many circles for the first time and our support base was increasing. Naturally, this created anxiety for OPG group.

Conspiracies were being hatched behind the scenes. Choudhury Raghubir Singh, Leader Staff Side JCM, President of FNTO and a close friend of OPG, wrote to Secretary DOT on 12^th December 1992, that since Moni Bose was an employee terminated in connection with the proposed strike of 1949, he is not eligible to be recognised as General Secretary of the E.III Union. Surprisingly, within days, a letter was received by the union from DOT stating that since Moni Bose is a terminated employee, he cannot be recognised as General Secretary and that President V.A.N.Namboodiri is allowed to make correspondence etc. with the administration. It was clear that such a letter from DOT would never have been issued without knowledge and initiative of OPG. Serious attack on the newly elected office-bearers had started.

As per decision of the union, Com.Moni Bose filed a case in Calcutta High Court against the absurd order of DOT denying him recognition as General Secretary. It was filed through Senior Advocate and veteran leader of CPI(M), Com. Somanath Chatterjee, M.P., who later became the Speaker of Parliament.

NFTE Federal Council and CWC of E.III Union at Mysore.

Federal Council of NFTE was notified for 14-17 March 1992 at Mysore by OPG, SG. Circle Secretaries belonging to OPG group put a requisition for a meeting of the Central Working Committee of E.III union at Mysore itself at the same time. It was clear that there was a new plan of attack on union. E.III Union CHQ notified the CWC as required.

There was contest for office-bearers in Federal Council. OPG was re-elected as Secretary General with G.C.Bawal as President. Our candidates Coms. J.N.Mishra and P.S.Raman Kutty, who contested for the posts of President and Secretary General, got 44% of votes, a respected and improved position.

In the CWC of E.III Union, members belonging to OPG group created disturbances demanding that district secretaries of Major Telephone Districts be allowed to participate, in order to create a fake majority. Since this was not as per the Constitution of the Union as also against the precedence of earlier CWCs including at Bhopal, it was not allowed by the President. The CWC meeting was held and important decisions taken.

Surprisingly, a letter was issued by DOT stating that conflicting reports have been received from V.A.N.Namboodiri President E.III Union and Com.S.Jagannathan about resolutions passed in the CWC. According to Jagannathan, it was stated, that  CWC is reported to have held the elections as illegal and unconstitutional. As such, SG NFPTE was asked to intervene by  DOT. This letter by DOT was nothing but to create another obstacle in functioning of the union and to support the defeated team at Bhopal. Interestingly it was Homi Daji, then President and Jagannathan,  representative of OPG group, who signed the election declaration at Bhopal. DOT’s part of disruption was evident. First, non-recognition of General Secretary elected at Bhopal; now openly supporting the defeated group. It is to be remembered here that outgoing General Secretary O.P.Gupta himself had submitted the list of office-bearers with V.A.N.N Namboodiri and Moni Bose as President and General Secretary respectively. After 5 months, complains to the DOT that election was illegal! Homi Daji, President, who declared election results had again confirmed about the correctness of the declaration when complained by OPG group later.

On the basis of the DOT’s letter, O.P.Gupta as SG issued a notice for holding a meeting of the Circle Secretaries of E.III Union at Bombay from 3^rd to 5^th June 1992 to hold ‘elections for the CHQ of E.III Union’.

The meeting of the Circle secretaries by SG NFTE was stayed by the Court of the vacation Civil Judge, Hyderabad on 27^th May 1992 in the case filed by Com.M.N.Reddy, AGS of E.III Union and direction issued to O.P.Gupta SG NFTE.

In the meantime, High Court of Calcutta, in the case filed by Moni Bose against the order of the DOT not accepting him as the elected General Secretary stayed the orders of DOT.

But the disruption by OPG group continued. A journal named ‘Televigil’ was published in the name of E.III Union, showing  S.Jagannathan as President and M.B.Vichare as General Secretary, which was in violation of court orders.

At last, Calcutta High Court delivered the historic judgment declaring Moni Bose as the duly elected General Secretary of the All India Telecom Employees Union Class III and directing DOT to extend all facilities of a recognised union to him. The judgment also made certain remarks stating that ‘the relevant circulars under Rule (mentioned by DOT) have not strictly been adhered to and the case of Shri O.P.Gupta is a glaring example’. Court was referring to the glaring example of O.P.Gupta being accepted as the General Secretary of the Union since 1954, though he never was a P & T employee and was a dismissed CG employee. Judgment also mentioned that ‘the petitioner (Moni Bose) was a temporary employee and his service was terminated without any reason and without any stigma’ and  thus did not have any dishonour or disqualification.

The judgment was a big jolt to OPG group. Their continuous unjustified actions against constitution of the union, against democratic functioning, conspiracies with DOT  – all were exposed. DOT also stood exposed. At last DOT was compelled to accept E.III Union with Moni Bose as its General Secretary. Truth prevailed at last.

(TO BE CONTINUED)

 

52. TO DELHI

Even before going to Bhopal AIC, return tickets were reserved from Bhopal to Delhi and then to Kozhikode. Election victory changed everything. Decision was taken that I should also be at CHQ Delhi, considering all factors including the difficulties in managing union affairs by General Secretary alone. In fact, Moni Bose had taken an assurance from me before deciding for contest, that in case of victory, I should also stay at Delhi. There were one or two reception meetings arranged at Bhopal to be addressed by President and GS and we stayed there. Kozhikode delegates, including Pankajam went to Delhi and returned to Kozhikode.

There was another reason for our delay in departure. Though election results were graciously accepted and new office bearers congratulated by OPG, what would be the reception at Delhi was not known. We had apprehensions. We had to take care of all the ballots and election materials, in case any complaints come later. Better be careful, reminded past experiences. We stayed two days at Bhopal and arranged everything before journey to Delhi. Without any intimation to anybody, started to Delhi along with Com. Ramachandran, Circle Secretary Income Tax Union, M.P. Ballot boxes were entrusted to Ramachandran who took it to office of Income Tax Employees Union Office Delhi for safe keeping.

We had planned to get down at New Delhi station and quietly go to Dada Ghosh Bhawan. But it was not to be so. Surprise! A large number of Postal and RMS employees under the leadership of Coms. K.Adinarayana, GS P.IV Union and P.S.Raman Kutty, GS T.III Union were waiting in platform. We were warmly received with welcome slogans. A meeting was held at the R.M.S.Office premises addressed by the leaders. All were very happy about our victory. Then we proceeded to Dada Ghosh Bhawan, Central Head Quarters of E.III Union.

Fortunately there was no problem. OPG, former General Secretary, who was staying there, arranged two rooms for our stay. A small room for kitchen was constructed. OPG told that within a few days, he will shift from Dada Ghosh Bhawan. But it never happened.

After two weeks of settling in CHQ, I went to home at Kozhikode to arrange things and come back. There was a big reception at the railway Station as also in Town Hall on 22^nd November 1991, which was organised under auspices of various unions. It was an opportunity to meet the many comrades of Kozhikode with whom I have been working for many years.

Within a few days, Moni Bose brought his wife, Com. Jyotsna Bose to Delhi. She was retired  Telephone Operator and leader of  NFPTE.  She cooked food for both of us.

Dada Ghosh Bhawan was purchased by E.III Union in 1963. NFPTE and its affiliated all India unions were accommodated in P and T House, a rented building, No.9, Pusa Road. The owner of the building wanted to sell and the unions were asked to vacate. It was at this time that OPG purchased this building in Patel Nagar with a loan received from his father out of his retirement benefits. Almost all unions in P and T House shifted to DGB. They paid their share for the building and loan from OPG’s father was returned. Most of the unions shifted from there later, except Postal III and E.IV unions. This was the situation when we started staying in DGB.

E.III Union CHQ was in the ground floor with three-four rooms including one kitchen, but not being used. We stayed in two rooms upstairs. There were two clerks, Coms. Atma Ram and Raghubir Singh. A typist used to come now and then. Com. R.K.Kohli, Assistant General Secretary, also used to attend now and then. A meeting of CHQ office-bearers was held,  functioning of CHQ discussed and many decisions taken. It was also decided to pay a small allowance of Rs. 350 per month to Moni Bose and R.K.Kohli for being at HQ.

A lot of letters and money orders every day. No end to telephone calls from various parts of the country. All on landline phones. Mobile service not started. In the morning after breakfast, will attend to the correspondence, prepare letters to be given to departmental authorities. There was no regular typist. Most of the time, I had to type. Since both the clerks were with OPG, there was a kind of non-cooperation. Anyway, they did not know typing. They will despatch the union journals, Telecom (Monthly) and Correspondence (Bi-Weekly) and carry out other jobs entrusted to them. (TO BE CONTINUED)

51. BHOPAL ALL INDIA CONFEENCE (CONTD)

Delegates from Calicut including my wife and a few other women comrades reached Bhopal about two days before start of AIC, so as to visit the nearby places of interest. We stayed in a hotel near the railway station, arranged by Reception Committee. When not visiting places, went to Railway Station along with Reception Committee members and received delegates. Utilised the opportunity to discuss organisational matters with them.

AIC started as per schedule. In all proceedings progressive section actively participated and expressed their viewpoints effectively. Coms.Moni Bose, JR and VAN explained why they resigned their office-bearer posts and also criticised the collaborationist policy being adopted by CHQ, instead fighting anti-worker policies of government. Comrades P.V.Chandrasekharan, Ananata Bhattacharjee, Shibdas Banerjee, R.S.Yadav, M.N.Reddy S.R.Nayak and other leaders from our side spoke effectively. Delegates appreciated our stand by and large.During recess, senior comrades met and reviewed performance of our speakers. Points to be raised were discussed. It was also decided to contest in election of office-bearers.

Both groups presented their view points and counter points very effectively. Most speakers were experienced leaders and knew how to present matters to the point. GS intervened now and then to counter the points raised by Moni Bose group.

Time for election of office-bearers arrived. President Com. Homi Daji called for nominations. Since we had prepared the panel earlier, submitted it immediately. General Secretary and his team were completely taken by surprise. For many previous conferences only, one list used to be there, presented by or on behalf of GS. A panel was submitted by OPG group also.

Discussions took place to arrive at a settlement, but unsuccessful. Contest became inevitable. It was not easy to hold voting with about 5,000 delegates.. though some had left by that time. Preparation of ballots with names of the contestants, polling arrangement, deciding method of voting – all took many hours.During the period, both sides organised processions with flags, banners and placards inside the huge pandal, meeting delegates and canvassing votes. Got good advantage since we had prepared all these in advance. But we were aware of the ground reality – out of more than 30 circles, we had majority and Circle Secretary in only about 7 circles viz. Kerala, W.Bengal, Calcutta Telephones, Assam, North East, Telecom Factory and U.P. However, there were many in other circles also who supported us. Voting continued for many hours. Circle Secretaries were given responsibility for voting and counting in their circles. Despite that, the process took time.

At last results were announced by Com. Homi Daji, who was both President and Presiding Officer. (Though he was proposed for the post of President by OPG group, he had declined with thanks). It sent shock waves among delegates. All posts, including posts of President and General Secretary, except two posts of Assistant General Secretaries, have gone to Moni Bose group. V.A.N.Namboodiri was elected as President, Moni Bose as General Secretary and Begraj Khari as Treasurer with good majority. The maximum number of votes were received by Com. A.K.Saramma, Vice-President. In the voting for Federal Councillors also, more numbers were from Moni Bose group. It increased the confidence of the workers on our side.

It was a historical victory for the progressives, never even dreamt by anybody. Reasons were clear. Though workers accepted what their leaders spoke to them, they were angry with the line taken by dominant leadership. When they got a chance they made use of it.

O.P.Gupta, who was General Secretary of the E.III Union since its inception in 1954 has been defeated and Moni Bose, leader of the progressive section has been elected in his place. Its importance was not limited in E.III Union. The entire CG employees’ movement viewed it as an important development. Certainly it was. It changed my life also. (to be continued).Photos 1. Moni Bose 2. V.A.N.Namboodiri 3. Begraj Khari

55Ramasamy, Chandrasekharn Puthiyaveettil and 53 others20 CommentsLikeCommentShare