Muster roll workers call off agitation following govt’s assurance to revise minimum wages

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 17, 2024

The All Jaintia Muster Roll Workers and Labor Union (AJMRWLU) on Tuesday called off its protest after the state government has assured to enhance the minimum wages as per  Minimum Wages Act 1948.

“We appeal to the Chief Minister, government of Meghalaya, if you have funds pay us as mandated by the Minimum Wages Act 1948. If not, make it loud and clear,” says one of the placards displayed at the protest venue at Malki ground here.

Earlier, the protesters had threatened to take out a protest march to the secretariat and stage an indefinite hunger strike if the government fails to comply with their demand.

“We have called off our agitation after the joint secretary in-charge of finance informed us that the proposal has been approved by the chief minister and the same is being sent to the labour department, which will very soon issue an order on the matter. However, we are yet to know how much will be the revised rate of minimum wages,” adviser of the union Khroo L Pariat told reporters.

According to him, they will wait for the order and take a call accordingly.

Earlier, Pariat informed that the union has decided to organize the protest after the government has failed to revise the minimum wages, which has affected the muster roll workers keeping in mind the price rise of essential commodities.

He said that union is also protesting against the non-implementation of the regular casual workers scheme (RCWS) given to workers, who have already completed more than 10 years in service.

According to him, the government has also alleged failed to ensure maternity benefits are extended to the women muster roll workers