Rajasthan Honda 2Wheeler Plant Face Labour Unrest

Honda's two-wheeler operations in Tapukara, Rajasthan is facing labour trouble. A group of dismissed permanent workers have gone on hunger strike. This hunger strike is for issues related to the formation of a union. This lead to the termination of over 102 permanent and 2,000 casual workers.

The issue is becoming serious as the dismissed workers who are protesting at the Jantar Mantar have received backing from the labour union at the Manesar factory. The factory at Manesar is Honda's first plan in the country.

Despite the protest, the production at the Tapukara plant continues. The plant started production in 2011 and had manufactured over 4,400 scooters and bike on a daily basis. The trouble started after the workers tried to form a union at the plant around the middle of last year, says Central trade union representatives.

D L Sachdev, National Secretary of All-India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) said, "In the intervening period, the company facilitated the installation of a pocket union' and also dismissed 102 permanent workers, while shunting out 2,000 casuals.

"There has been a collusion between the HMSI management and the Rajasthan labour department. They have received support from the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), which is affiliated to the BJP that runs the state government."

Suresh Gaur, president of the union at Manesar said, "If the company management refuses to cooperate, we may be forced to go for further action."