Date:27/08/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/08/27/stories/2006082717570300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Unorganised workers' federation plans agitation

Staff Reporter

CHENNAI: The Unorganised Workers' Federation which has welcomed the measures announced for workers in the State budget, is now demanding that other measures for workers' welfare, such as registration through unions, social security, housing and Government-controlled sale of construction materials, be implemented. All members of the federation would participate in a rally and dharna on September 21 demanding protection of trade union rights and workers' right to life.

Principal demands include passing comprehensive legislation on social security, increasing budgetary outlay for social security, formation of specific labour boards and inclusion of workers from industries like domestic work and hand embroidery under the Minimum Wages Act. The federation said construction workers would stage a day-long dharna before Fort St. George here on Monday. Protests are planned at various towns in Tamil Nadu on Monday, Thursday and Friday.

Some members of the Federation would also be representing the State at the national-level rally to be held in New Delhi in November in support of the same demands.