Tag Archives: Save BSNL

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 24 )

09 Thursday Jul 2015

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2013

Agitation programmes

The meeting of the Forum held on 24th January 2013 discussed about the long pending issues like 78.2% IDA fixation, ITS repatriation, 30% fitment/ 5 increments for post-2007 recruited employees, procurement of equipment, formation of BBNL and its adverse impact etc. The following programmes of action were decided.

  1. Savingram to Secretary DOT on 28 – 30 January. The following savingram to be sent to Secretary, DOT by SSA Secretaries with copy to CMD BSNL and Minister of Communications:

DEMAND IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF AGREEMENT ON 78.2% IDA MERGER”

  1. Lunch Hour Demonstration on 11th February 2013
  2. Dharna on 15th February 2013 at SSA level.

These programmes were effectively implemented.

Child Care Leave order issued by BSNL

Consequent to  the sustained efforts of the Forum, the orders on Child Care Leave was issued on 08-03-2013. It was a very great relief to the women officials.

ITS Repatriation Case Filed by BSNLEU, SNEA(I) and AIBSNLEA

The above organizations filed case against the order of the government granting permanent  deputation to BSNL to ITS officers on the same day after they were repatriated to DOT as per the High Court Order. This was in fact a clear violation of the High Court judgment.

Memorandum to the GoM on Revival of BSNL

In the meantime, the Government of India appointed a Group of Ministers (GoM) with Shri P.Chidambaram, Finance Minister, as Chairman to suggest means and ways to revive BSNL and MTNL. This was similar to the appointment of the Sam Pitroda Committee in 2010, which only recommended measures which will weaken the BSNL/MTNL, like VRS for one lakh employees, Disinvestment of 30% shares etc. Appointment of the present GoM was also on the same line.

Despite this back ground, the Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations gave a detailed Memorandum to the Chairman of the GoM with the following suggestions, proposals.

  1. Management of BSNL should belong to the company, not on deputation
  2. No Disinvestment in BSNL
  3. No VRS in BSNL
  4. Compensation for rural services.
  5. Procurement mechanism for equipment for expansion
  6. Refund of BWA Spectrum charges
  7. Reimbursement of Licence Fe
  8. Exemption from payment to USO Fund contribution
  9. Exemption for BSNL from payment towards additional spectrum
  10. Providing Services to Central/state Governments, PSUs, Banks etc.
  11. Refund of interest on notional loan of Rs. 7,500 crore.
  12. Transfer of assets and making land bank for commercial utilization
  13. Revival of telecom Factories.
  14. Compensation for cable damage for the work executed by government agencies.
  15. Compensation for Telegraph services.
  16. Abolition of Telephone Advisory Committees(TAC)

A detailed introduction on the growth and development of telecommunications in India was also given as introductory remarks.

The Memorandum was signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, Forum, P.Abhimanyu (BSNLEU), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), K.Sebastin (SNEA(I), S.P.Sharma (BSNLWRU), K.Jayaprakash(FNTO), R.Raveendran(SEWA BSNL), Chandeshwar Singh (NFTE), S.C.Gaur(BSNLOA), P.Andiappan (FNTOBEA), Hari Singh (BTU), R.Venkatraman (TEPU), R.K.Kohli(NFTBE), S.V.S.Subrahmanyam(BTEU) and S.D.Sharma (ATM).

The copy was sent to the Prime Minister and concerned ministers also. Though Forum requested for a hearing, no such meeting took place. This showed the casual attitude of the GoM to the important suggestions placed by the Forum.

Action Pogrammes

Since there was acute delay in settlement of the issues raised by the Forum, the meeting of the Forum held on 9th May 2013 decided to organize further programme of action, including strike as shown below;

  1. Demonstration at SSA level on 22-05-2013
  2. Dharna at SSA level on 05-06-2013
  3. Indefinite Strike from 12-06- 2013.

It was also decided to issue an Appeal to the workers calling them to fully make the strike successful. The Strike Notice was issued on 17th May 2013. It was signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, Forum, P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), S.C.Gaur(BSNLOA), (NFTE), K.Sebastin(SNEA(I), K.Jayaprakash(FNTO), R.Raveendran (SEWA BSNL), Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), R.K.Ram(BTU BSNL), Gajendra Kumar(BTEU), R.Venkatraman (TEPU), R.K.Kohli(NFTBE), P.Andiappan(FNTOBEA), S.P.Sharma(WRU) and S.D.Sharma (ATM). The appeal was also signed by all these unions.

In preparation for the strike, the meeting of the Forum held on 06-06-2013 decided to organize Lunch Hour Demonstrations on 11-06-2013, issue press release and hold a Press Conference on 10-06-2013 and also meet the Secretary BRPSE, since the 78.2% was referred unnecessarily to BRPSE.

All the programmes before the 12th June Strike were effectively implemented.

Orders on 78.2% IDA Fixation and call off of Indefinite Strike from 12-06-2013

Seeing the full preparations for the  Indefinite Strike, BSNL Management and DOT moved fast.  They were delaying the issue of orders on 78.2% on which agreement was made one year back on the eve of strike from 13th June 2012.  The orders on 78.2% IDA fixation was approved by the DOT on 10th June 2013  and orders issued on the same day by BSNL.  This was a great achievement, considering the fact that BSNL was in loss and was facing severe financial crisis.

The Forum met on 11th June 2013 and after review of the entire situation, including the issue of orders on 78.2% IDA fixation, decided to call off the Indefinite Strike given notice of from 12th June. The decision for the withdrawal of the strike was conveyed to the CMD BSNL signed by all the unions on 11th June itself. A Circular was also issued congratulating the workers for their determination and full preparation for the strike which compelled the DOT and BSNL management to issue the orders.

The Meeting of the Forum held on 13th June 2013, seriously discussed about the revival of BSNL and decided that serious campaign amongst employees as also the people should be organized to give wide propaganda. Accordingly it was planned to hold an All India Convention at Delhi followed by Circle/SSA Conventions within the next three months. Forum demanded the Management to regularly conduct the Works Committee meetings to discuss development and expansion with the Unions. The Forum also formed a Core Committee with Comrade V.A.N.nambooiri(Convener), P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), K.Sebastin(SNEA(I), C.Singh(NFTE), Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), K.Jayaprakash(FNTO) and N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL) to meet urgently and implement decisions. (To be continued)

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 23 )

08 Wednesday Jul 2015

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ITS Absorption

Despite continued demand, the ITS absorption was not settled. The Forum Meeting on 04-09-2012 decided to organize Lunch Hour Demonstration on 18th September and the same was effectively implemented.

The Forum leaders met Secretary, DOT and also CMD BSNL on the issue of the implementation of 78.2% IDA fixation and ITS absorption issue, but there was no progress. Hence the meeting of Forum held on 4th October 2012 decided the following:

The Forum decided that the court case for getting intervention in the ITS absorption in the Delhi High Court to be continued effectively. We should demand the BSNL Management and the Government that the repatriation should be finalized as per Govt., DPE guidelines. Failing the above, all absorbed employees should demand for repatriation back to DOT.

In order to achieve the demands, it was decided to organize a Savingram Campaign demanding immediate repatriation of ITS officers. A dharna to be organized on 15-10-2012. Parliament March to be organized on 26th October 2012 and Relay Hunger Strike from 29th October to 3rd November 2012.

Savingram Campaign

As per decision, Savingrams were sent to Prime Minister, Communications Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Secretary DOT and CMD BSNL demanding that the ITS absorption issue settled with out any further delay.  Massive dharnas were organized in all SSAs/Circles and at Corporate Office, Delhi.

In the meanwhile, the Unions/Associations in MYNL were also contacted since the ITS absorption issue is a common issue for both BSNL and MTNL. It was decided that a joint meeting of the Unions/Associations in BSNL and MTNL be held and the prospects of joint programmes planned.

Joint Forum of BSNL/MTNL Unions/Associations

The meeting of the Unions/Associations of Executives and Non-Executives in BSNL and MTNL was held on 25th October 2012 presided by Com.M.K.Bagchi, Convener of the United Forum of MTNL Unions/Associations. Com.V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener of the Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations reported the actions already taken in the ITS absorption issue and further planning. Detailed discussion took place. It was decided that a Joint Forum of BSNL/MTNL Unions/Associations of Executives and Non-Executives be formed. Com.M.K.Bagchi (MTNL) was elected as the Chairman and Com.V.A.N.Namboodiri(BSNL) as the Convener. In order to make the Parliament March with more massive participation and to enable the MTNL employees also to participate the date of the March was postponed to 22nd November 2012. In preparation for the same, Joint Demonstrations were held in Delhi and Mumbai and all centres in the country on 8th November 2012. This was implemented effectively. The meeting of the Joint Forum held on 8th November discussed and took necessary decision for organizing the Parliament March on 22nd November.

Mammoth Parliament March on 22nd November 2012 by BSNL/MTNL employees

On the day of the Parliament March, from the early morning workers started coming to participate. Hundreds of workers from the nearby states of Rajasthan, Punjab, UP(West), Haryana etc. came. Wall Posters of the March was pasted before all BSNL / MTNL Offices. A mighty demonstration took place before the March started from Bharat Sanchar Bhawan. The March was led by the leaders of the Joint Forum of BSNL/MTNL Unions/Associations. The workers held placards, banners and flags of all unions/associations in large numbers. The March went through the town towards Parliament but was stopped at the Parliament  Street by the Police with barricades. The March was converted in to rally there and the meeting was held with an improvised stage.

Members of Parliament, Com. Basudeb Acharia(CPIM) and  Shri Arjun Meghwal (BJP) addressed and supported the demands and assured that they will take up the case with the government. Com.M.K.Bagchi, Chairman JF presided and Com.V.A.N.namboodiri, Convener welcomed all and presented the demands of the JF. All the leaders of the Forum addressed.

The Chairman and Convener of the Forum, Coms. M.K.Bagchi and V.A.N.Namboodiri went and presented the Memorandum  to the Prime Minister demanding immediate repatriation of the ITS Officers to DOT.

The Parliament March was participated by thousands of workers. It was a huge success.

Murder of Com. Sukhender Singh, District Secretary BSNLEU, by  GM, Ghasiabad

The meeting of the Forum held on 25-10-2012 condemned the murder of Com. Sukender Singh, DS, BSNLEU Ghaziabad by the GM, Ghasiabad and demanded the BSNL Management to take immediate action against the GM by suspension/transfer and filing FIR.

Agitational Programmes by Joint Forum of BSNL/MTNL Unions

The meeting of the Joint Forum held on 4th December 2012 reviewed the Parliament March and further decided that joint actions are necessary in the following issues.

  1. Immediate refund of BWA Spectrum charges to BSNL and MTNL.
  2. No extra charges for extra 2G Spectrum being held by BSNL/MTNL
  3. Adequate compensation for BSNL landlines operations which are loss making
  4. Immediate release of funds from USOF
  5. Exempt BSNL/MTNL from spectrum liberalization and refarming
  6. Sanction of adequate funds from USOF to BSNL and MTNL.
  7. Immediate procurement of equipments both in BSNL and MTNL
  8. Payment of government Pension to MTNL retirees
  9. Immediate issue of Presidential Directive from DOT for 78.2% IDA fixation for BSNL employees

Two Days Dharnas were held on 17th and 18th December 2012 on the above issues with massive participation.

As in earlier years, 2012 was also a year of hectic activities. 21 meetings of the JAC/Forum/JF were held in 2012. (To be continued).

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 22 )

07 Tuesday Jul 2015

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2012

Affiliation of unions to JAC

The meeting of the Joint Action Committee held on 25th April 2012 discussed the requests of NFTBE and FNTOBEA  for affiliation to JAC and the same were accepted.

JAC renamed as Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations

The meeting of the JAC held on 28th May 2012 was attended by NFTE.  In order to include all the new unions and to have no embarrassment to any union, it was decided to re-name the Joint action Committee in to Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations of Non-Executives and Executives. Coms.C.Singh and  V.A.N.Namboodiri were  unanimously elected as President and  Convener of the Forum respectively.

Forum decides agitational programmes

The meeting of the newly constituted Forum met on 29th May 2012 and discussed about the pending issues of the BSNL employees. It was surprised to find that while the Management has denied 78.2% to the executives, it has fully implemented the VI CPC recommendations for the ITS who are on deputation and who have already opted for DOT. This is a stark discrimination towards BSNL absorbed employees.

As such the Forum decided to organize agitational programme immediately. The following programme of action was finalized:

  1. Massive demonstrations at all Circle/SSA HQs and day long dharna at BSNL Corporate office on 31st May 2012
  2. Mass Dharna at BSNL CO/Circle/SSA HQs on 6th June 2012
  3. Indefinite Strike w.e.f. 13th June 2012

The following are the demands:

  • Immediate implementation of DPE OM. No. 2(70)/08-DPE(WC)/09 dated 26th November 2008 and OM No. 2(70)/08-DPE(WC)-GL-VII/09 dated 2nd April 2009 i.e
  • Revision of pay as per fitment benefit @78.2% w.e.f. 01-01-2007.
  • Revision of Perks & Allowances after revision of pay scales.
  • Transport Allowance
  • Children Education Allowance/Tution Fees/Hostel Subsidy etc.
  • Family Planning Allowance
  • Professional Upgradation Allowance
  • Payment of Medical Allowances on quarterly basis as per BSNLMRS
  • Restoration of All india LTC/Leave Encashment
  • Implement Child care leave.
  • Provision of Superannuation benefits to directly recruited employees as per DPE guidelines.

The Strike Notice was issued on 29th May 2012 and was signed by ComradesV.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, Forum, Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), Raj Mouli(NFTE), V.Subburaman(TEPU), S.P.Sharma(BSNLWRU), Hari Singh(BTU BSNL), R.S.Yadav(ATM), R.K.Kohli(NFTBE), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), H.P.Singh(BSNLOA), Gajendra Kumar(BTEU BSNL), (AIGETOA), K.Sebastin(SNEA(I) and D.P.Patwa(AIBCTES).

A Circular by Forum signed by the Convener and all the General Secretaries was issued on 7th June 2012 calling upon the employees to fully participate in the ensuing Indefinite Strike from 13th June. Wall Posters designed was put in the website and the Circle Forum Conveners asked to print the same in local languages.  A Press statement was issued by the Convener on the strike. An effort was made to meet the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications. Circles were asked to form the Forum so that co-ordinated efforts could be made.

Discussion with CMD BSNL

After receipt of the Strike notice, a meeting was called by the CMD BSNL on 11-06-2012 continued on 12-06-2012. All the General Secretaries were present. After protracted discussion, the following agreement was reached between the Forum and the BSNL Management:

Agreement on 12-06-2012

  1. Revision of pay is agreed as per fitment benefit @ 78.2% w.e.f.01-01-2007 subject to approval by the competent authority. However, actual payment will be made prospectively and the arrears will be deferred for the time being and will be paid only when the financial position of the company improves. This will be applicable for the pensioners also.
  2. Medical reimbursement with voucher for out-door treatment, Professional Upgradation Allowance and HRA will continued to be paid at basic pay with 68.8% fitment. Payment of these allowances will be reviewed on 01-04-2013, subject to the financial position of the company.
  3. All other allowances ie. Children Education Allowance, Tution Fee, Hostel Subsidy, Family Planning Allowance etc. will continue to be paid at the present rates.
  4. The issue of implementation of Child care Leave will be taken up with the BSNL Board for re-consideration
  5. For the purpose of provision of superannuation benefits to directly recruited employees, as per DPE Guide Lines, a committee will be constituted to re-examine the issue and give its recommendations.

With the signing of this agreement, the Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations and the National Unions of BSNL Workers (FNTO) has decided to defer its proposed indefinite strike from 13th June 2012.

The agreement was signed by Shri N.K.Narang, GM(SR) on behalf of BSNL Management. The following signed on behalf of Forum:

Comrades P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), Islam Ahmed(NFTE), S.V.S.Subrahmaniam(BTEU BSNL), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL), K.Sebastin(SNEA(I), Zile Singh (NTSU), H.P.Singh(BSNLOA), R.P.Shahu(AIGETOA), K.Jayaprakash (FNTO), S.P.Sharma(WRU), Hari Singh(BTU), D.P.Patwa (AIBCTES).

The agreement was a great success in the situation when the company was in loss. The struggle of the workers was not in vain. The large mobilization of the workers, their preparation for strike to ensure justice – all created a situation, where the management was compelled to discuss and agree to the demands of the workers.

The meeting of the Forum on 4th September 2012 discussed in detail about the pending issues and also the implementation of the agreement signed on 12th June 2012. It was understood that the BSNL Board has approved 78.2% IDA fixation, but the same will have to be approved by the DOT. No decision has been taken about the Child Care Leave. (To be continued)

 

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 21 )

30 Tuesday Jun 2015

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Outsourcing/leasing of tower, Optical Fibre Cable opposed

The JAC in its meeting on 04-10-2011 strongly opposed the above outsourcing and addressed a letter to the CMD BSNL on this. A press release was also issued.

Strike preparation in full swing

The preparation for the strike was in full swing. The JAC issued a Circular signed by all the unions. Press releases were issued by the JAC. Many M.P.s were contacted and their support requested.  An Appeal to the Parliament Members were prepared and sent to many MPs. Wall posters were printed and circulated. Campaign meetings were held every where to make the strike successful. In this context, the BSNL Management under the chairmanship of Shri A.K.Garg, Director(HR) held discussions with JAC leaders. All the issues in the strike notice were discussed, but no satisfactory decision was taken by the management. The JAC leaders informed that since no agreement was reached, the strike will take place as decided. Rallies in preparation of the one day strike was organized at SSA/Circle/C.O. levels on 8th December 2015 with good participation. A conciliation meeting held by the CLC on 15-12-2011 could not solve the issues.

One Day Strike on 15th December 2011

The Strike on 15th December 2011 was a great success. Though FNTO did not participate and also issued statement opposing the strike, it did not have any effect.  The strike was participated completely by the workers. The reports from all places indicated that the workers were aware of the serious situation and had come forward to participate in the Strike and save BSNL and its workers. Many Federations/Unions supported and gave solidarity to the struggle of BSNL employees.

25 meetings of the Joint Action Committee was held in 2011 and various issues discussed and struggles organized. (To be continued)

We can not be lazy and casual, BSNL has to be revived

29 Monday Jun 2015

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In the latest circular of the Forum, it is mentioned that no reports have been received from the circle Forums / Unions, about the 09.00 PM- 07.00 AM campaign from 8th June 2015 called for by the Forum. This is distressing. The BSNL employees are in the middle of a great Save BSNL Campaign, and we can not be lazy or casual on the issue. The campaign has now been extended to one more month, which is required.

When the house is on fire, no body can be inactive or casual. BSNL is facing difficult times. The challenge has to be made an opportunity to improve the services, to improve the financial position.

‘Do or Die’, ‘Perform or Perish’ are not mere slogans. They are the slogans which have to be made practical when we meet challenges. Let us be serious, determined and dedicated to the cause of saving and strengthening BSNL.

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 20 )

29 Monday Jun 2015

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NFTE & FNTO requested to come back to JAC

As per the decision of the JAC, letters were addressed to NFTE and FNTO to come back to the JAC. Discussion also took place. They stated that they will put the issue before their respective working committees.

JAC meeting with the Secretary DOT on 04-08-2011

The JAC leaders met Shri Chandrasekhar, Secretary DOT on 04-08-2011 and discussed some of the issues raised by the JAC. Shri S.C.Misra, Member(Services) was also present. The following issues were discussed.

  1. Absorption of ITS officers.
  2. Against retaining of BSNL buildings with DOT
  3. National Broadband Network to be entrusted to BSNL
  4. Cancellation of licences of errant companies.
  5. Delay in payment of Revision of Pension from 01-01-2007 and its arrears.
  6. BSNL’s pension contribution to be on the actual basic pay instead of on the maximum of pay

Secretary, DOT assured to consider all the matters positively.

Withdrawal of Medical Allowance, LTC, Leave Encashment etc.

BSNL started posting loss from 2009-2010. It was more loss in 2010-11. In this circumstance, instead of expanding the business, the BSNL management, in the name of reducing expenditure, issued orders withdrawing the Medical Allowance without voucher, restrictions on LTC,  curtailing Leave encashment at the time of availing LTC etc. Further the management did not take any action to pay Bonus. This was done while the employees under the leadership of JAC were making all efforts to improve the services and to make BSNL financially viable.

Dharna on 14th September 2011

The meeting of the JAC held on 7th September discussed the matter and decided to organize dharna on 14th September in all SSAs/Circle and Corporate office. A meeting was called by PGM(SR) to discuss the above issues. But there was no result. The Dharna programme as decided was organized effectively with massive participation in all the centres. This was a clear warning to the management.

JAC decides for One Day Strike on 10th October 2011

The meeting of the Joint Action Committee held on 21st September 2011 discussed all the above issues and decided to organize agitational programmes including strike for settlement of the present issues.  The following programmes were decided:

  1. One Day Fast on 27-09-2011
  2. One Day Strike on 10-10-2011

It was also proposed to meet as many Members of Parliament as possible and seek their support for the demands and agitation. The Strike Notice was issued on 22-09-2011 with the following demands:

  1. No VRS
  2. Immediate payment of Bonus(PLI)
  3. Restoration of Medical Allowance, Leave encashment and LTC.
  4. Immediate conclusion of the process of ITS absorption
  5. 2% IDA fixation
  6. Immediate procurement and supply of equipments including GSM, BB Modem, Cables,Trans SMS, MLLN etc. and implementation of important business projects like ERP, NGN and transmission NMS.
  7. Government Policy Issues:
  8. Compensation for loss making rural services according to policy commitments.
  9. Pension Contribution to DOT only on actual basic pay instead of maximum of the pay scale.
  10. Refund of Rs. 8,313 crore paid towards non-standard BWA spectrum band
  11. Grant of flexibility in selecting circles choice for 3G spectrum
  12. Access deficit Charge(ADC) should be quantified through adequate and appropriate mechanism and paid to BSNL
  13. Reimbursement of Licence fee as assured at the time of corporatization.
  14. Refund of ‘Notional Loan’ of Rs. 7,500 crore with interest collected by DOT to BSNL
  15. Discontinue all Telecom Advisory Committees.

The strike notice was signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener JAC, P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), G.L.Jogi(SNEA(I), P.Venugopal(AIBSNLEA), V.Subburaman(TEPU), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), Ram Kishun Ram(BTU BSNL), Gajendra Kumar(BTEU), S.C.Gaur(BSNLOA), N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL), R.K.Kohli(NFTBE).

As per the decision massive dharnas were organized on 27th September 2011 at SSA/Circle/C.O. levels successfully.

Strike postponed for broader unity

The JAC contacted  NFTE and FNTO leaders who were keeping away from the JAC for some time and requested that they may join JAC and also participate in the one day strike proposed on 10th October 2011. Both unions agreed to join the strike, if it is postponed so that they will get time to prepare. Accordingly, the Strike date was postponed to 15th December 2011. The Strike Notice was issued  on 17-11-2011 signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, JAC, P.Abhimanyu (BSNLEU), G.L.Jogi (SNEA(I), Prahlad Rai (AIBSNLEA), V.Subburaman (TEPU), Suresh Kumar (BSNLMS), R.K.Kohli (NFTBE), Kanchilal(SEWA BSNL), R.K.Ram(BTU BSNL) and S.C.Gaur(BSNLOA). NFTE and a few other unions stated that they will issue separate notice and participate in the strike. (To be continued)

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 19 )

27 Saturday Jun 2015

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2011

Meeting with Secretary, DOT on the strike issues

A meeting of the JAC  was held with Shri R.Chandrasekhar, Secretary, DOT on 06-02-2011 with regard to the implementation of the agreement made on 2nd December 2010 at the time of the strike.

Protest Against BRPSE’s retrograde recommendations

In the meanwhile, the BRPSE recommended implementing VRS in BSNL, Reduction of retirement age to 58,  Merger of ITI with BSNL etc. The meeting of the JAC held on 29-03-2011, unanimously decided to organize country wide demonstrations on 5th April 2011 against these retrograde recommendations. The demonstrations were effectively organised throughout the country.

The Convener, JAC, Com.V.A.N.Namboodiri wrote a detailed letter to Communications Minister Shri Kapil Sibal on 12-04-2011 with regard to the absorption of ITS officers in BSNL. Another letter was written on the same day to the Lok Sabha secretariat submitting our suggestions on the allocation and pricing of telecom licences and spectrum to the Joint Parliament Committee (JPC) appointed for the purpose and seeking a meeting.

In the meantime, NFTE and FNTO stopped attending the Forum meetings. The reason seemed to be the misunderstanding arisen due to the hectic campaign in the Membership Verification of non-executive unions held in the December 2010.

“Customer Delight Month”, “Employees Awareness Week”

The JAC meeting held on 29th March 2011 decided to observe May 2011 as “Customer Delight Month”, to educate and propagate among the workers the need to attend to the  customers in a far better way so that the services will be better and there will be good feeling among the customers. The financial viability of the company was going down and the service was also not up to the mark. Hence, the programme of “Customer Delight Month”. There was general consensus in the meeting that the ‘government mind set’ should be changed and work culture should be improved. It was also decided to give wide publicity to the decision. In the same way an “Employees Awareness Week” is also to be observed from 24-04-2011. These programmes were effectively observed in many places.

A meeting was held with the JAC by Shri Gopal Das, CMD, BSNL on 20-05-2011 on the implementation of the “Customer Delight Month” in which the JAC gave a number of valuable suggestions. On the basis of these suggestions, the BSNL issued several instructions to the field offices for taking specific actions to improve the services.

The JAC had another round of discussions on 03-05-2011 with the newly appointed CMD Shri R.K.Upadhyay on the suggestions for improvement of the services and implementation of the “Customer Delight Month”. The Directors (HR), (CFQ) and (CA) also attended.

The JAC also decided to organize   JAC meetings in circles which should be attended by the leaders of the Forum/General Secretaries of the JAC affiliated unions. These meetings were effectively held.

The JAC  objected strongly against the action of  DOT arbitrarily taking over the important BSNL buildings in many places and handing over the same to CCAs etc. Resolution was adopted in the meeting on this subject on 27-04-2011 and forwarded to the Prime Minister, Communications Minister, Secretary DOT and CMD BSNL.

ITS Absorption –  Court case

The  meeting of the JAC held on 8th April 2011 decided to file a court case on the ITS absorption issue. The case will be filed by BSNLEU, SNEA(I) and AIBSNLEA jointly. This was done.

Proposals for a New Telecom Policy 2011 were submitted to the Communications Minister Kapil Sibal on 06-06-2011 as per decision of the JAC.

“Customer Delight Year 2011-12”

The meeting of the Joint Action Council held on 13th July 2011 discussed in detail about the implementation of the “Customer Delight Month”. The reports received from the General Secretaries showed that while in some centres, the observation has been effective, in many places the workers have not started the programme seriously. However, there have been improvement in almost all places. It was decided to extend the programme and convert it to “Customer Delight Year 2011-2012”. A Circular was issued in the matter signed by the Convener and all the General Secretaries.

The Director(HR) BSNL Shri A.K.Garg  issued a letter on 20th July 2011 to all the CGMs intimating that the JAC has decided to observe “Customer Delight Year 2011-12” and to ensure that all actions are taken to make the programme a success. (To be continued)

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 18 )

26 Friday Jun 2015

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Historic Strike – Magnificent Achievement

The 3 days strike started on 1st December 2010. The BSNL Offices and exchanges in the country were closed without anybody attending. It was a complete strike. The press gave good publicity. Sister unions like Confederation, NFPE, AIIEA, BEFI and others expressed solidarity and support. The BSNL workers going on strike to defend the company was well received by the public.

BSNL Management as well as Government did not expect such a full strike. The Secretary, DOT called the unions for discussion on 2nd December 2010, the second day of the strike. CMD BSNL was present. After the discussion with DOT a meeting was held with the BSNL Management. Agreement was reached on the demands at about 2130 hours on the same day and the strike was deferred.

The official minutes of the meeting and the agreement is given below:

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited ( No.BSNL/7-15/SR/2010 dated 2nd December 2010)

Representatives of BSNL Unions/Associations met with the Secretary (Telecom), DOT today where CMD BSNL was also present. A follow up meeting with BSNL Management under the Chairmanship of CMD, BSNL Shri Gopal Das, was also held at 15.00 hours on 2nd December 2010 in which representatives of JAC as well as from the management side were also present.

In the course of the meeting, the unions emphasized on the following issues;

*Procurement of GSM equipment

*Benefit of 50% IDA merger in pay fixation

The management side clarified that action is under way for procurement of 5.5 million lines to meet the immediate demand for North and east Zones. In addition, a proposal is also being considered to procure 15 million lines for the next year.

On the issue of benefit of 50% IDA Merger in pay fixation (effectively amounting to 78.2%) CMD BSNL informed that the case has been deliberated in the 130th meeting of the Board held on 25-08-2010 wherein the Board taking in to account all the pros and cons decided to defer the implement of the benefit of 50% IDA merger for pay fixation till the Company’s financial position improves considerably and there is visible signs of recovery. On further insistence by the JAC members, CMD requested the union leaders to provide fresh inputs on this issue which could be examined by the management before submitting the case to BSNL Board for its consideration. On the remaining issues, the position is given in Annexure-1

With this, CMD BSNL again requested the JAC members to withdraw its ongoing strike, to which the JAC members agreed.

The main points of the agreement were as follows:

  1. No Disinvestment/IPO for the present
  2. No unbundling of last mile copper
  3. Pension Revision note will be resubmitted to cabinet for decision immediately
  4. ITS Absorption issue –Cabinet Note circulated to related Ministries
  5. Adequate procurement of mobile equipment will be expedited
  6. 2% IDA pay fixation will again be discussed in BSNL Board
  7. Projects and Programmes of development will be taken up
  8. Commitment of Financial viability will be taken up with the government.

The agreement was signed by all the General secretaries and convener JAC, who have given the notice for strike. Thus the historic strike was called off after the second day. The BSNL workers were happy that the management and the DOT was compelled to agree to most of the demands raised by the JAC. A circular was issued by Convener JAC and General Secretaries congratulating the workers for the excellent strike and assuring that the JAC will continue the struggles for implementation of the agreement. (To be continued)

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 ( 17 )

25 Thursday Jun 2015

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Strike postponed to  1st to 3rd December  2010

In view of the Bihar Assembly elections and Kerala Local body elections, the JAC meeting held on 23-09-2010 decided to postpone the 3 days strike from 19th to 21st October to 24th to 26th November 2010. Due to unavoidable circumstances again the strike dates were postponed to 1st to 3rd December 2010.

Strike Notice issued.

The notice for the three days strike was issued on 15-10-2010 signed by Coms. V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, JAC, P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), K.Vallinayagam(FNTO), Raj Kishore (BSNL WRU), V.Subburaman(TEPU), G.L.Jogi(SNEA(I), S.S.Tomar(BSNLMS), R.K.Kohli(NFTBE), (SNATTA), P.Venugopal(AIBSNLEA), D.P.Patwa(AIBCTES) and N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL).

The Demands :

  1. Refund of Rs. 18,500 crores to BSNL paid to government towards 3G and BWA spectrum charges.
  2. 2% IDA Merger for wage revision w.e.f. 01-01-2007
  3. Immediate settlement of ITS Group A absorption issue.
  4. No Disinvestment/IPO of BSNL
  5. No VRS
  6. Procurement of adequate mobile equipments.
  7. No unbundling of last mile copper cable.
  8. Implement government’s commitments on financial viability of BSNL given at the time of corporatization by continuing exemption from Licence Fee, and continuation of ADC, USO Fund
  9. Effective and expeditious implementation of implementation of programmes and projects like ERP, NGN etc. Immediate fool proof measures for smooth change over to CDR
  10. Government departments and PSUs should be manadated to take telecom services from BSNL/MTNL only
  11. Revision of Pension on IDA along with wage revision. Immediate revision of IDA pension of pre-2007 BSNL retirees.

Historic Parliament March on 15th November 2010

In preparation for the 3 Days Strike from 1st December 2010, the Joint Action Committee organized a massive March to Parliament on 15th November 2010. Thousands and thousands of BSNL employees participated in the March which started from the Bharat Sanchar Bhawan, the Corporate office of BSNL. The March was stopped at the Parliament Street by the police where a huge  rally  was held. Com.Basudev Acharia, M.P., inaugurated the rally. Com.V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener, JAC spoke in detail about the demands of the workers and the anti-BSNL decisions of the Government and the necessity of making the 3 days strike from 1st December a great success. Coms. P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), G.L.Jogi(SNEA(I), Prahlad Rai(AIBSNLEA), C.Singh(NFTE) and other General Secretaries addressed.

Strike Notice issued

The Strike Notice for 3 days strike was issued signed by Coms. V.A.N.Namboodiri, Convener JAC, P.Abhimanyu(BSNLEU), Chandeshwar Singh (NFTE) & Chairman JAC, Suresh Kumar (BSNLMS), N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL), S.C.Gaur(BSNLOA), G.L.Jogi (SNEA(I), Prahlad Rai (AIBSNLEA), Anil Kumar(BSNL ATM),K.Vallinayagam(FNTO), V.Subburaman(TEPU), Raj Kishore (WRU) and R.K.Ram (BTU BSNL). A Circular with details of the demands was circulated. Wall Posters were printed and distributed in large numbers. Parliament Members raised questions in the Parliament on the various issues mentioned in the strike notice. Press Releases were also issued by the JAC which were prominently published in the newspapers.

Struggle for Bonus

On the plea of loss to the company for the financial year, Bonus was denied to the BSNL workers. The JAC discussed the issue and decided to go on Hunger Strike on 15-10-2010. The same was organised effectively with good participation.  A Dharna was also organised on 28-10-2010. But the issue of payment of Bonus was not settled. (To be continued)

Struggles by Workers to Defend and Save BSNL : 2004 – 2015 – ( 15 )

23 Tuesday Jun 2015

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2010

Procurement of equipments

The Joint Forum of BSNL Unions/Associations met on 1st January 2010 at New Delhi and discussed the latest situation with regard to the development of BSNL services and connected matters. The cancellation of the 45.5 million mobile tender by BSNL has created a serious situation for BSNL with no mobile lines to provide. The company which was in first position in both land lines and mobiles had gone down to third position in mobile, while keeping its first position in land lines, total market share going down to 16.38 from the earlier more than 20%. Mobile lines have to be purchased urgently. Under these circumstances, the Joint Forum decided to organize the following agitational programmes demanding immediate tender and purchase of 93.3 million mobile lines for expansion

Telegram campaign:

Circle/District/Branch Secretaries to send the following telegram to the Prime Minister, so as to reach before 6th January 2010.

To Shri Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, New Delhi KINDLY INTERVENE TO SAVE BSNL BY IMMEDIATE FINALISATION OF 9.3 MILLION GSM LINES.Name of Circle/District /Branch Secretary

Demonstration at all centres on 5th January 2010.

These programmes were effectively implemented.

Memorandum to the Prime Minister

A Memorandum dated 5th January 2010 was submitted to the Prime Minister with the same demand. It was signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri (BSNLEU) Convener JF, B.R.Jhakatia (SEWA BSNL), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), G.L.Jogi (SNEA), V.Subburaman(TEPU), (BTEU), Hukam Singh (SNATTA) and Devi Prasad (AIBCTES).The JF leaders met the Communications Minister A.Raja on 4th January 2010 and requested the intervention of the Minister to speed up the 93.3 million GSM tender.

Retrograde Recommendations of Sam Pitroda Committee

The retrograde recommendations of the Committee headed by Sam Pitroda, former Secretary DOT and telecom expert, raised sharp reactions from the workers. It proposed 30% of disinvestment in BSNL, Retrenchment of one lakh workers, unbundling of the copper cables, outsourcing work etc. The Joint Forum conducted a detailed study and submitted its suggestions. In its meeting on 10th and 15th March 2010 , the JF discussed the issue and decided to strongly protest and go on agitation. The following programmes were decided:

One Day Dharna on 26-03-2010

Indefinite Strike from  20-04-2010

In order to bring NFTE also in the co-ordination ( which had moved from the Forum some time back), the name of the Joint Forum was changed to Joint Action Committee and the new office – bearers with Com. N.T.Sajwani (NFPTE) as Chairman and Com. V.A.N.Namboodiri (BSNLEU) as convener was reconstituted. NFTE was keeping away from the Joint Forum after the Membership Verification on the plea of differences between the unions in many places.

Demands of Indefinite Strike from 20-04-2010

Settle ITS Absorption issue

No Disinvestment / No Privatisation of BSNLNo Retrenchment / No VRS

No unbundling of last mile copper and other infrastructure

No outsourcing

Immediate procurement of mobile lines

Ensure IDA Pension Revision to BSNL Retirees.

The Strike Notice was signed by Comrades V.A.N.Namboodiri (BSNLEU), Convener, N.T.Sawani (NFTE), Chairman, K.Vallinayagam(FNTO), V.Subburaman(TEPU), Suresh Kumar(BSNLMS), G.L.Jogi(SNEA(I), S.P.Sharma (BSNLWRU), K.Anil Kumar(ATM), Sathyanarayana (AIBSNLEA), N.D.Ram(SEWA BSNL), Hari Singh (BTU BSNL), D.P.Patwa (AIBCTES) and H.P.Singh(BSNLOA). The Notice for strike was served on 23-03-2010 after a massive demonstration participated by hundreds of workers at Corporate Office. All over India, the demonstrations were participated by thousands.

Meeting with secretary, DOT

Shri P.J.Thomas, Secretary, DOT, held a meeting with the JAC leaders.  While the discussions were cordial, there was no clear decision or assurance.

Meeting with Minister of State, Communications

The Minister of State, Communications, Shri Gurudas Kamath, called for a meeting with the JAC leaders on 26th March 2010. The Minister heard the demands but could not give any favourable decision. He only stated that appropriate action will be taken.

In preparation of the strike, the Joint Action Committee issued press release and printed posters and circulated in large numbers. Detailed circulars were issued calling upon the workers to fully participate in the strike. State level conventions were successfully organized in many centres. This resulted in massive propaganda amongst workers and public.

Meeting with the Minister Communications Shri A.Raja was held on 16-04-2010 on the strike demands including against recommendations of the Sam Pitroda Committee, but there was no favourable result.