Hyderabad, June 29 (NSS): The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) vehemently opposed the Union government’s recent decision to privatise the Singareni coal mines.
The INTUC stated that the Union government’s move threatens the livelihoods of thousands of workers and their families, undermines decades of progress in labor rights, and jeopardizes the strategic interests of our nation and its wealth.
Speaking at a press conference at Gandhi Bhavan here on Saturday, B Janak Prasad, Secretary General of Singareni Coal Mine Labour Union, RD Chandra Shekar, General Secretary of INTUC and other leaders strongly condemned the privatisation of Singareni coal mines.
They stated that Singareni coal mines have been a cornerstone of India’s energy sector and a vital source of employment for Telangana region. However, the proposed privatisation is not just a blow to the workers, but also to the local communities that depend on the stability and security provided by these public sector enterprises.
The transition to private ownership risks the erosion of workers’ rights, job security, and fair wages, as profit motives take precedence over the well-being of employees, said Janak Prasad, Secretary General of Singareni Coal Mine Labour Union.
He stated that the INTUC believes that privatization will lead to mass unemployment and destruction of environment and displacement to indigenous and Tribal people and that could compromise safety standards, environmental regulations, and the long-term sustainability of coal mining operations.
Janak Prasad urged the BJP government at the Centre to reconsider its decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including trade unions, to explore alternative solutions that prioritise the welfare of workers and the national interest. (NSS)
