Date:18/01/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/01/18/stories/2004011810310500.htm

Andhra Pradesh

OPDR alleges violation of labour laws

By Our Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD, JAN. 17. The Andhra Pradesh chapter of the Organisation for the Protection of Democratic Rights (OPDR), which carried out a survey of the "pitiable" working conditions of industrial workers in Katedan, Chandrayangutta and Gaganpahad areas, has demanded that the Labour Department conduct an enquiry into the goings-on in industrial units in these areas.

"The enquiry should be done in the presence of workers and local people within a specific time frame," the chapter general secretary, R.V.K. Satyanarayana, said in a memorandum addressed to the State Labour Commissioner here on Wednesday.

The OPDR demanded strict implementation of labour laws, issuance of identity cards, eight-hour work schedule with prescribed minimum wages, etc. to the workers.