Haryana Roadways’ Workers’ Strike: ‘Largest Solidarity of Workers against Privatisation’

The ongoing protests of Haryana Roadways’ workers against privatisation of Haryana Roadways which has entered its 15th day- saw massive support from workers of all categories of various sectors, including Anganwadi workers and helpers, ASHA workers, mid-day meal workers, rural cleaning personnel, janitor, forest workers, contract workers, construction workers, researchers, teachers and labourers in the protest call given by various joint unions on October 30 and 31.

In a first, the multiple demonstrations on October 30 saw nearly 2 lakh workers across Haryana extending their support to the protesting roadways’ workers. It has been reported that some even extended their support after marking their presence in their respective workplaces. However, the government agencies have issued a statement stating the protest demonstrations have not had any impact at all. 

Speaking with Newsclick, Inderjit Singh, former state secretary, Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] Haryana said, “This is the largest ever solidarity by workers of all categories against privatisation.” 

Government’s Response: Imposition of ESMA

The Roadways’ workers’ strike- which began with a two day strike call on October 16 and 17, since then, has been witness to a number of events. After the first successful strike call, the state government, in an attempt to curb the protests had imposed the Essential Services Maintenance Act, and suspended around 250 workers, along with the sealing of the union offices of AIRTWF, AITUC and INTUC, in a number places including Faridabad.

Also read: Continued Strikes by Haryana Workers : A Reflection of Failed Governance?

“The government from time to time has shamelessly tried to privatise the prestigious Haryana Roadways which has won many national awards. The Khattar Government in it’s four years in Haryana has not purchased a single bus because they want to benefit some private companies,” Singh further added. 

The government which had initiated steps to engage 720 private buses on lease to operate in state transport routes on ‘kilometer’ basis is facing the heat of the protests, as these buses come with their own drivers and conductors. Singh said, “The private companies usually take loans to purchase these buses. So if the government doesn't have money, they can also take loans. Workers are ready to give their one month’s salary as opposed to hiring a driver and conductor to drive these new buses.” 

Also read:Haryana Roadways Workers Call for Strike Against Privatisation

State President of CITU (Centre of Indian Trade Unions) Haryana, Satvir Singh; Executive President Vinod Kumar and Secretary General Jai Bhagwan in statement issued to the press said that more workers and employees will be involved in the strike on October 31.

Latest news from the protesting workers report that the police has ‘lathicharged’ protestors in Bhuna in Fatehabad district, where Chief Minister Khattar was present. As many as 14 people including Surinder Malik, State Secretary of CPI(M), Haryana; Sukhbir Singh of AIKS (All India Kisan Sabha), and Phool Singh Sheokand, CPI(M) leader from Haryana have been arrested, while several others have been injured. 

Also Read: Central TUs Condemn 'Atrocities' on Striking Haryana Road Transport Workers