NOTES ON HISTORY OF
P&T MOVEMENT
1904
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee submitted first memorandum on problems of
employees in Kolkata GPO. The memorandum was signed by the employees, who on
being asked by the Presidency Postmaster withdrew their signature. Babu
Tarapada boldly faced the queries of the PPM. Some of the problems were
redressed.
1905
: Postal Club was established in Bombay (presently Mumbai).
1906
: i) A meeting was held to form an organization in Kolkata at the
initiative of Babu Tarapada. But no decision could be made for the fear of the
employees.
ii) In the second meeting also no
decision could be taken.
iii) Indian Telegraph Association was
formed at the initiative of Henry Barton. This was the first Govt recognized
organization.
1907
: i) Second memorandum was prepared and submitted by Babu Tarapada. This
time most of the employees signed the memorandum.
ii) A demand was placed before the authorities to get permission for
formation of Postal Club.
1908
: i) The Telegraphists went on continuous strike at the call of Indian
Telegraph Association.
ii) Babu Tarapada Mukherjee called
upon the Postal Signallers not to perform the job of Telegraphists during
strike. The Postmaster General threatened Babu Tarapada, who was transferred to
Purnea at once. But the incident created positive impact. Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee handed over charge as SPM, Entally. He acquired a rented house at
162, Bowbazar Street and established the Calcutta Postal Club in first part of
May 1908 and left for Purnea. This club acted as union till 1920.
iii) Postmen in Kolkata went on strike
for wage revision owing to price-rise.
iv) Organisation was grown in various
places ---
Postal League was formed in
Dhacca at the initiative of Babu Sarat Chandra Sen, organisation was built up
in Bombay, Ahmedabad, Satara, Kanpur, Lahore, Lucknow, Madras and other places.
1913
: Third memorandum was prepared and submitted on the demands of Postal and
RMS workers like wage revision, time test and others.
1918
: Postmen of Bombay went on strike which continued for 145 days. The
striking employees sought for advice from V.G.Dalvi, who advised to form a
union. This was the first step towards formation of Postmen and Lower Grade
Staff Union.
1919
: Dada Ghosh (Bhupendranath Ghosh) entered into service. India Rules 1919
was introduced. In it’s Section 96(B) conduct rules of Govt. employees were
incorporated.
0
1920 : i) Postal Inquiry
Committee was formed by the Govt to examine the service conditions of Postal
Workers.
ii) The leaders of Postal Workers
from various parts of the country came over to Simla to give witness to Postal
Inquiry Committee. They met and discussed on formation of All India
Organisation. Babu Tarapada drafted the constitution in consultation with all
the leaders present. Leaders agreed to form All India Union by holding
conference. The draft constitution was sent to various states to get it
discussed and adopted.
All India Post Office and RMS
Union was formed in the All India Conference held in Delhi from 24th
September 1920 to 26th September 1920.
1921
: i) All India Conference was held at Lahore. Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
elected as President of that A.I.C. At that time, wife of Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee was in death-bed. He was in dilemma about what to do. But Sulakshna
Debi encouraged her husband so that he could attend the AIC and fulfill the
expectation of the Postal and RMS workers.
Babu Tarapada not only attended the
conference but also delivered a historic presidential speech exposing the
deplorable condition of Postal workers and criticizing the British govt for
which he was charge sheeted.
The
defence statement submitted by Babu Tarapada is also a historic document. An
offer was given to him to apologize, but he refused boldly. He told that what
he had stated in his speech was the living experience of the Postal workers.
Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
served with order of termination on 20th November 1921 and his wife
expired on 29.11.1921. Two serious attacks came to his life at a time.
ii)
The Calcutta Postal Club immediately decided to raise fund for livelihood of
Babu Tarapada by the way of enhancing the rate of monthly subscription.
iii) All India Post Office and RMS Union
Bengal Circle, in their Circle Council meeting decided to compensate the salary
of Babu Tarapada as paid while in service.
iv) Contributions also came from Burma and
from Madras Circle.
1922
: i) In the All India Conference Babu Tarapada was elected as General
Secretary of the Union defying the Recognition Rules which provided that no
punished employee could be elected as office bearer of the union. Still the delegates
courageously elected a retrenched employee as their leader.
ii) As Central Union would take the
responsibility to disburse the salary of the G.S., Babu Tarapada purchased a
small building at 12, Chhaku Khansama Lane in Kolkata and started functioning
of the Central Union from there. Such arrangement continued till 1927, when the
Central Union was shifted to New Delhi.
1929
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee expired on 20th September at 3-45 P.M.
in the Central Union office.
Achievements
of Babu Tarapada
- The
strength of the union was consolidated.
- Re-instatement
of retrenched employees.
- Change
in the time test.
- Introduction
of time scale.
Dada Ghosh came
forward as a leading functionary of the union.
The leaders of the Calcutta Postal
Club decided to erect a building in the memory of Babu Tarapada utilizing the
fund accumulated in their hand from the subscription raised by them and
donations sent by Burma and Madras comrades. Foundation stone was laid in 1930
at 37 Ganesh Chandra Avenue owned by the Calcutta Postal Club. Postal and RMS
unions are still now functioning from that building.
1929
: i) Great depression started in capitalist economy. British Govt
constituted a committee --- ‘Committee on Retrenchment’ popularly known as
Zahangir Committee.
The Zahangir Committee
proposed :
- To
stop recruitment.
- To
reduce the working strength.
- To
reduce the wages by 10 percent.
- To
augment ED post parallel to each regular cadre in Postal Dept.
ii) Trade Dispute Act
was modified to curb the people’s agitation.
1931 : i) Emergency Reduction Rules
1931 was introduced to reduce the number of employees.
ii) Dada Ghosh proposed to launch
work-to-rule to face the attack.
1932 : Recognition of All India Post
Office and RMS Union was withdrawn.
1934 : Wage cut was introduced. Govt
saved Rs. 2 Crore 75 lakhs. Pasricha Postal Inquiry Committee was constituted
by the Govt. After implementation of its report, disparity increased.
1935 : Section 96(B) of India Rules 1919 was amended to curb the
trade Union activity of Govt. employees.
1936
: Strike was launched.
1937
: Stay-in demonstration was treated as absence and pay cut was imposed by
amending Payment of Wages Act.
1939
: i) Demand for D.A. as a separate component of salary was raised. During
thirties posts of 18 categories namely, ED Sub-Postmaster, ED sorter, ED
packer, ED Farash, ED Chowkidar, ED Nightguard, ED Mali, ED Mail Carrier, ED
Messenger etc. were introduced to reduce the cost of Postal Dept.
ii) It was necessary to launch
struggle to resist these onslaughts. Instead of unity disunity took place.
Following new unions were formed :
§ Town Inspector and
Inspector Association.
§ PMG Office Staff
Union.
§ Muslim Postal and RMS
Union.
Prior to that the following
unions existed :
§ Indian Telegraph
Association.
§ All India Telegraph
Union.
§ All India Postmen and
Lower Grade Staff Union.
§ All India Post Office
and RMS Union.
Dada Ghosh came in the leadership of Bengal Circle after the demise of
Babu Tarapada..
iii) During Second World War
various parts of Bengal, Assam, Burma and coastal part of Orissa were badly
affected by bombing of Japanese forces. People at large evacuated. Postal
workers were also evacuating.
iv) Dada Ghosh gave a call to stay
at work place and serve the people. He was thinking to visit the affected areas
and meet the workers for their moral boost up. He was in a dilemma because his
wife was seriously ill. His younger son was also ill.
v) Ultimately he took leave and
went on tour. His presence in the affected areas enthused the P&T workers.
But when he returned home he saw that his wife died in his absence. Few days
later his younger son also expired. Dada Ghosh was so moved with grief and
sorrow that he resigned from the post of union. But after 2/3 days he withdrew
his resignation at the request of his followers.
1942
: Director General on 18th December called a round table
conference where union representatives raised the demand to grant D.A. as a
separate element of salary. Unanimity was developed on granting Rs.5/- as D.A.
on 20 point price-rise. During World War there was unprecedented price-rise. The
situation brought various unions nearer.
Secretary of State’s (Conduct) Rules
1942 were promulgated. Section 4 A and B provided retrenchment of employees for
staging demonstration. So many postal comrades were punished by this rules and
also protested against by unions.
1943
: The Govt declared P&T, Railway and some other departments as
essential and militarise those departments. Most of the P&T workers joined
Defence of India Army to have free uniform, Ration Allowance and Military
Compensatory Allowance with a view to have some relief for their livelihood.
1944
: In All India Conference of All India Post Office and RMS Union it was
reviewed that price index had raised to 320 points in comparison to pre-war
period. Demand for wage increase was raised.
1946
: i) There was continuous attempt to unite all the unions. On the 24th
January 1946, Federation of Postal and Telegraph Union was formed under the
leadership of Dewan Chamanlal. All India Postmen and Lower Grade Staff Union
did not join the Federation.
ii) All India Postmen and Lower
Grade Staff Union and Federation jointly served strike notice on 24th
February 1946.
iii) Govt set up adjudication headed
by a High Court Judge Rajadhaksya. That adjudicator recommended Rs.5/- to
Rs.15/- for non-gazetted staff.
iv) Federation at this stage
withdrew the strike notice.
v) On 10th May 1946 Govt
set up first Pay Commission headed by a judge of Federal Court Srinibas
Baradachariya. Thus there were two commissions on wage review at a time. This
created much confusion.
vi) The decision to wear Hungry
Badge was withdrawn by Federation. That program was implemented by All
India Post Office and RMS Union in Bengal, Assam and in some parts of Bihar.
vii) Because of differences amongst
the unions no unified approach could be possible in the matter of pay revision
to First Pay Commission.
26.06.1946
: All India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union issued strike notice on 12
point demands to go on strike from 11th July 1946 midnight.
- Dewan
Chamanlal opposed the strike on behalf of Federation.
- General
Secretary of All India Telegraph Association Dr. Narona also opposed the
strike.
- The
strike was also opposed by M.A.Jabbar, General Secretary of Indian Posts
and Telegraph Association.
- Their
plea was that some issues had been under examination by adjudication and
as much the strike is unjustified.
11.07.1946
: Strike commenced at midnight. In Bombay, Assam, Bengal and Madras Postmen
strike was total. In Assam authorities directed the postmen, who are members of
All India Post Office and RMS Union and did not participate in strike, to work
in places of striking ones. The postmen as per direction of Dada Ghosh refused
to move. Some of them were suspended. So, question came before A.I. Post Office
& RMS Union how to cope up with the situation. In Calcutta, all the unions
met together and decided to join the strike. Entire Bengal Circle joined the
strike from 21st July with 3 days notice.
§ The entire telegraph
workers joined the strike under the leadership of K.G.Bose defying their all
India leadership. Comrades of Calcutta Telephones joined the strike defying the
direction of Indian Post and Telegraph Association.
§ A.I.T.U.C., the only
trade union at that time called upon the labours to go on strike as solidarity
in Bombai and Madras.
29.07.1946
: A.I.T.U.C. in Bengal and Assam gave call for Hartaal and the normal
life in both the states were totally stopped. The role played by the working
class raised this strike at a level of anti-imperialist movement.
§ At the intervention
of National leaders negotiation took place and after settlement of demands the
strike was called off on 3rd August.
§ But for Bengal circle
a separate discussion took place and the strike in Bengal Circle was called off
on 6th August.
§ Main achievements
were :
1.
Pay
structure revision.
2.
Pension
for lower grade employees.
3.
Departmental
promotion.
4.
Good
conduct pay @Rs.5/- for all non-gazetted staff including EDAs.
Lesson of the strike :
·
Necessity
for united organisation was felt.
·
Need
to join the main stream movement was felt. All India Postmen & Lower Grade
Staff Union and All India Post Office & RMS Union took affiliation of
A.I.T.U.C. in February 1947.
·
P&T
workers participated in a joint movement against their employer on common cause
which led them to form one union in one industry afterwards.
1947
: To have a unified organisation leadership held continuous dialogue from 2nd July to 5th
July 1947. constitution was drafted,
name of the unified organisation was finalized.
·
On
12th August 1947 separate conferences of all the unions were held in
New Delhi and thereafter in a joint conference ‘Union of Posts and Telegraph
Workers’ (UPTW) was formed.
·
All
India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union though joined that initiative from
very beginning could not join UPTW as because their All India conference
rejected the proposal.
1948 : A proposal for re-alignment of P&T union was prepared by
the Govt and a conference of various unions were held where 14 unions joined
the discussion. But no decision could be taken.
·
At
that time UPTW was enrolling membership, collecting subscription and getting
prepared for strike ballot. So, most of the leaders thought that the move of
the Govt is for diluting the steps of UPTW. So, they opposed the steps.
·
The
First Pay Commission failed to meet the requirement of the employees especially
in regard to pay scale and policy for granting D.A. etc. DA increase was suggested
on rise of 20 points in the price index, but they authorized the Govt to decide
the quantum of D.A., i.e., quantum of D.A. would depend on the mercy of the
Govt.
1949 : After independence
there was no change in price-rise. National leaders did not take any action
against black-marketeers, hoarders as promised. The assurances given by them to
P&T workers to resolve the problems after independence were also thrown
into dustbin. Employees had no other alternative than to resort to strike. The
Federal Council of UPTW decided to go on to strike. When preparation of that
strike was going on some leaders gave a requisition for meeting to reconsider
the strike decision. That meeting was convened at Madras.
·
The
leaders reaching Madras were arrested by Police. Some were arrested during
their journey also. More than hundred top-ranking leaders were arrested. Afterwards
their services were terminated. Some of them were brought back to service on
appeal or court orders. K.G.Bose, though
won the court case, was not allowed to join by the Telegraph authorities.
1952 : To organize one
union in one industry came up for discussion again. The proposal of the Govt
was discussed upto divisional level. Overall unanimity was reached among
leaders and their rank and file.
1954 : Ultimately on 24th November 1954, National
Federation of Post and Telegraph Employees (NFPTE) with its nine affiliated
unions were formed.
1955 : Agitation on the
demand of Festival Advance was organized in Calcutta. On 19th
October 1955 a mass deputation was organized at PMG’s office. The demand was
acceded to by the PMG. But one of the leaders of that agitation Comrade
Sarojmohan Chatterjee was retrenched from service.
·
Demand
for formation of 2nd Pay Commission was raised in the Parliament by
the MPs of various Parties.
·
Federal
Executive also raised same demand.
·
CCS
(Conducts) Rules 1955 was introduced. Section 4 A and B of previous rules
continued.
1956 : Confederation of
Central Govt Employees and Workers was constituted. Attempt was made to organize all central govt employees under
one federation/confederation but failed.
1957 : 15th Labour Conference
(tripartite) decided the norms for need-based minimum wage.
·
Demand
for the 2nd CPC was again raised in the Parliament on 17.5.1957,
that day a strong demonstration of 10,000 CG employees were staged in New Delhi
on the 2nd CPC.
·
Strike
notice was served on 21.5.1957 to launch continuous strike from 8th
August 1957.
·
Formation
of 2nd CPC was announced in the Parliament on 3rd August
1957. Sri Jagannath Das was the chairman.
·
A
separate committee (Rajan Committee) to examine the service condition of the ED
employees was formed on 5th September 1957.
1958 : Rajan Committee submitted its
report on 1st September. The report exposed :
i) historical background of
ED system.
ii) service condition (total
insecurity) at that time.
iii) wage policy so long
followed, no compensation for price rise.
Committee recommended:
i) revision of wages based on point
system, i.e., on quantum of work.
ii) adhoc increase in lieu of
D.A.
iii) promotion to regular posts
through examination.
iv) adoption of service rules
(ED Agent Conduct & Service Rules).
Above recommendations
were accepted by the Govt.
Recommendations not accepted:
i) departmentalisation of ED
employees in phased manner.
ii) house rent for office room.
iii) other facilities proportionate to regular employees like leave,
uniform etc.
1959 : Report of 2nd CPC was placed in the winter session of
Parliament. The report did not recommend:
ð
Need-based
minimum wage; so aspirations of the employees did not fulfill.
ð
On
DA issue the CPC proposed DA increase on 10-point rise in price index in one
year, but the quantum of DA would be decided by the Govt.
It proposed to increase the
working hours on Saturday and denied full trade union right.
Protest demonstration was staged
on 22nd December 1959.
All India Railwaymens Federation,
All India Defence Employees Federation and Confederation of Central Govt
Employees and Workers called continuous strike from the midnight of 11th
July 1960.
1960 : Efforts were made by
the organizations for negotiation. Some discussions were held with some
ministries at the intervention of some M.P.s but failed. Attempts were made to
meet the Prime Minister, who refused to meet. Strike became unavoidable.
·
Ordinance
was promulgated on 8th July 1960 evening declaring the strike
illegal. That ordinance provided arrest without warrant, jail for 6 months and
a fine of Rs.200/- in case of violation of ordinance. In case of instigation
jail for one year and fine of Rs.2000/- was prescribed.
·
Recognition
of 85 unions and Federations was withdrawn. Police started harassing the
employees before the strike took place.
·
Barring
Congress and Janasangha all the political parties supported the strike. AITUC,
Hind Majdoor Sabha (HMS), State Govt Employees Organisations supported the
strike.
·
Slanderous
campaign moved on in All India Radio after the provocating speech given by the
Prime Minister himself.
STRIKE
COMMENCED
:
·
That
was the first joint action of all Central Govt Employees against the stand
taken by their employer.
·
There
was no all-out strike. Strike in Bombay, Nagpur, Kolkata, Bangalore was almost
total.
·
On
13th & 14th, participation in P&T increased but
that in Railways decreased.
·
On
14th, Hartaal was organized at various places at the
initiative of AITUC & HMS.
·
JCA
decided to withdraw the strike on 16th and called upon all the
employees to join on 17th July 1960.
·
The
first ever joint action of Central Govt Employees was brutally attacked by the
Central Govt.
·
80% of P&T
workers went on strike. The Central Govt admitted that 17.6 lakh man-days were
lost and the Govt had to suffer a loss of 2 crores of Rupees.
·
While
the Congress leaders and their family members came out as volunteers to break
the strike the Communist Party mobilized in favour of strike.
1960
: Penal measures taken :
·
5
Railway employees were shot dead at Chahod. Another 9 were killed at Police
firing at various places. Total 17780 employees were arrested. Total suspension
was 27098 including the arrested. 6000 temporary employees were retrenched
straightway. Another 6000 were dismissed on being jailed. Penal measures
against 45945 employees were taken.
·
Lists
of suspended and dismissed officials were displayed at the office gate and they
were not allowed to enter the office. Those who ere allowed to join had to sign
an undertaking that he did wrong in joining the strike and would never
participate in any strike in future.
·
Public
opinion could be mobilized by the Communist Party of India by organizing mass
campaign throughout the country against such massive penalization and
ultimately the Govt had to consider the appeals and petitions and reduced the
larger section of penal measures.
1960
: After The Strike :
·
JCA
met on 28,29 & 30th July 1960 and decided seven joint tasks ---
i) get the arrested
employees released.
ii) halt the
processes of departmental proceedings.
iii) halt the fresh
processes of departmental proceedings.
iv) to reduce the
jail terms.
v) reinstatement of
dismissed employees.
vi) to stop the
punishments of territorial army.
vii) restoration of
union’s recognitions.
·
Steps
were also taken to consolidate the strength and unity amongst workers. But it
was hardly possible because of administrative atrocities.
·
The
stand taken by the Central JCA to launch work-to-rule was withdrawn
unilaterally by them without consulting the state-level leaders. This stand did
harm to the organisation, especially to face the victimizations.
·
The
strike brought the necessity for a machinery to resolve the labour dispute.
1961 : Recognition was
restored by a court verdict. But it took more time to restore normal
functioning.
·
The
ordinance (Essential Services Maintenance Ordinance) promulgated by the Central
Govt before the strike was enacted subsequently. A bill was also prepared,
namely, Industrial Relations Bill in which Joint Consultative Machinery was
provided. That bill also provided some provisions for recognition of unions and
associations :
a) the organisation should
have support of at least 15 % of employees /workers.
b) in order to participate
in JCM support of 35% would be required.
c) no outsider could hold
any post of the union.
d) membership verification
would be conducted at par with labour unions.
1962 : In 6th
Federal Council of NFPTE the contradiction between two lines came in the
forefront, viz,
Resolution moved by
K.Rammurthy proposed the way of negotiation to achieve the demands while that
moved by R.P.Chatterjee proposed the way of struggle and agitation. Such
differences influenced the organisation for years to come and still that
difference is there in the organisation covertly.
·
Another
difference also came out in that resolution. Rammurthy proposed that Chinese
Army attacked India in the border where as R.P.Chatterjee explained the event
as border dispute and to be settled through negotiations.
·
Despite
those debates P&T workers donated Rs.45,000/- to Defence of India Fund.
1962 : National Emergency
was declared during India-China border dispute. It was decided in a meeting
between the Home Minister and Central Govt Employees that they would deposit a
portion of their earnings in the
following way :
1.
1%
of income in compulsory deposit scheme.
2.
1%
of income in savings certificate or Defence Bond.
1963 : In the Union Budget for the year 1963-64 it was
enacted that the employees who were not in the purview of income tax will have
to save money in the following manner :
Provident Fund è 6%
Compulsory Deposit
Scheme è 1%
Savings Certificate è 1%
According to new act è 3% } Total 11% per month
Protest demonstration
was launched on 8th August 1963 at the call of Confederation.
·
Condition
of the Central Govt employees were dismal, because wholesale price-index
increased by 6.4% in 1962-63 in comparison to 1952-53. Expenditure for
livelihood increased by 40% during that period.
·
A
review carried out by The Times of India went to show that monthly requirement
of lower-middle class family required Rs.115/- to Rs.140/- per month. But
salary of the lowest paid Central Govt employee was Rs.70/- p.m.
·
After
D.A. increase of Rs.5/- to Rs.10/- in 1961, there was no enhancement of D.A. as
there was 10% increase in price-index during last 12 months average.
·
JCM
was formed on 5th October 1963. But differences persisted from the
very beginning.
1.
It
was decided to determine the number of representatives on the basis of
employees, but number of ED employees was not included.
2.
the
Govt was not agreed to form any forum of JCM at Circle level.
3.
a
tough difference was there in the matter of rules for recognition.
Debate on all these issues continued upto
1964 but could not be clinched.
1964
: CCS (Conducts) Rules 1964 was introduced.
Section 4 A and B of previous rules were not there. Different section of this
rules were changed 24 times.
ED Agents (Conduct and Service) Rules 1964
were introduced. It had also been changed thrice.
1966 : Movement on Irreducible Minimum Demands (at
the call of AIPEU Class-III) :
14th to 19th
November 1966 late attendance for 15 minutes and gate demonstration.
2nd
December 1966 hunger fast and sit-in by the office-bearers at all levels.
From 14th
December ’66 work-to-rule.
Achievements : Four-handed offices upgraded to LSG.
Charge allowance
Rs.10/- to TS SPMs.
Post of Manager (HSG) in RLO.
Creation of
Accountant post in Divisional Office.
Fifth post in
Accounts branch be upgraded to LSG etc.
Agitation launched by
AIPEU Postmen & Group-D
From 14th
Nov ’66 == demonstration and performing delivery on foot. Boycotting of
uniform.
From 14th
Dec ’66 == work to rule.
Settlements by negotiation : Hourly-rated overtime to packers on
holidays and working days.
Absentee beat overtime and
cycle allowance to Postmen @Rs.3/- p.m.
On
D.A. Formula :
As
regards to full neutralization of price-rise Second Pay Commission recommended
:
1.
The
Govt should not enter into any agreement on full neutralization of price-rise.
2.
Inflation
provides some facilities to a section of people while deprives another,
specially the salaried group whose earnings looses its real value.
3.
continuous
and high rate price-rise only creates a situation for neutralization.
It
also opined that salary can bear 22.50% erosion continuously for 12 months
while the opinion of the First Pay Commission was 12.50% erosion was
bearable continuously for 6 months.
Staff
side raised the following questions during first part of 1960s:
- whether
neutralization would be made for average price rise in last 6 months or
last one year.
- what
would be the quantum of neutralization --- half or full.
- whether
the increase in DA would be automatic or responsibilities would be given
to an independent third party.
- how
the ED employees would have the neutralization.
No agreement could be
reached and a protest day was observed on 12th August 1964.
27.08.1964 : To decide quantum of DA an
one-man committee was set up with Sri S.K.Das, a retired Judge.
24.10.1964 : A massive demonstration was
organized by all Central Govt employees against Das committee. Com.
S.M.Banerjee raised the issue in Parliament.
Das Committee did not recommend any thing. It
submitted following proposals :
- D.A.
granted to the employees since 1958 as per recommendation of Second CPC
failed to provide justice to the employees.
- In
order to decide the formula for granting D.A., there was need for
examination in details from both the angles of time and points of
price-rise.
- Present
formula needed some change till the price index became stable.
Naturally, the need
of the employees could not be served by Das Committee.
26.07.1966 : A three-man committee was set up
by the Govt to go into the question of D.A. compromising of P.B.Gajendra Gadkar
(Chairman), M.V.Rangachari and Dr. B.N.Ganguli (members).
·
The
terms of reference were as follows:
1.
to
finalise the principles of granting D.A. to C.G. employees and its impact on
State Govts, Undertakings and Semi-Govt employees.
2.
to
find out the alternative of granting D.A. which would have no impact on
inflation.
3.
to
find out change, if any, is required on the system recommended by the Second
CPC.
4.
the
Govt exchequer had to bear the expenses for D.A. for which taxes were
increased. As a result the burden was transferred to the people at large.
Taking such situation in view whether the neutralization of price rise would be
proper or not.
5.
to
consider different reasons of price rise, effect of wage hike over price index
and present position of national economy.
·
The
preliminary report of Gadkar Committee provided :
1.
90%
neutralization in case of lower-paid employees (basic pay Rs.70/- to Rs.109/-).
2.
Govt’s
proposal to reduce quantum of neutralization and to find out alternative for
granting D.A. were rejected.
·
On
19th May 1967 Demand Day was observed.
Main
Recommendations of Gadkar Commission :
1.
The
proposal for D.A. was to be considered on the event of ten-point price rise
during 12 months duration.
2.
D.A.
increase against price rise should not be left for consideration of the Govt.
Increase of D.A. as a result of price rise should be automatic.
3.
Wage
structure should be revised after two years or on 245 point price index
whichever is earlier.
4.
Revision
of D.A. would not be admissible within the pay range between Rs.1000/- to
Rs.2200/-.
·
At
that time the Govt and the capitalists raised the slogan --- Wage freeze.
Profit freeze.
Price freeze.
·
Proposal
for discussion on Gadkar Commission’s report was rejected by the Govt.
Agitation
Became Inevitable
·
3rd
August 1967 --- massive demonstration was organized in front of the residence
of Prime Minister disobeying 144 of CrPC.
·
A
discussion was held on 11th August 1967. Finance Minister Morarji
Desai proposed to keep the amount of D.A. in deposit and take payment
afterwards. Staff side refused that proposal.
·
The
JCA of 1960 was reconstituted. Strike for 24 hours on 11th September
1967 from midnight was decided by JCA.
·
Morarji
Desai announced that wage and D.A. increase would be kept withheld upto March
1968.
·
After
serving strike notice discussions took place and decision was taken that ---
1.
After
discussion in JCM two installments of D.A. was granted and credited to GPF
which could be withdrawn after 31st March 1968.
2.
Next
D.A. would be paid in cash.
3.
Question
of full neutralization would also be negotiated and decided after March 1968.
After such
discussions, strike was withdrawn.
·
But
Govt. failed negotiated settlement on full neutralization. No negotiated
settlement became possible on need-based minimum wage, D.A. formula, merger of
D.A. with pay etc. Even the Govt was not agreeable to refer those issues to
Arbitration.
·
National
Executive committee of Confederation in its meeting held on 21.7.1968 decided
to go on strike.
·
AIRF
and AIDEF jointly decided to go on strike on 12th September 1968.
·
Confederation
organized a convention of Central Govt employees’ organizations. There were
differences on various issues and even in the matter of joint movement of Rly,
Defence and other C.G.employees. Still by way of mutual discussion it was
decided to go on strike on 19th September 1968.
·
Central
Govt again promulgated an ordinance to declare the strike illegal.
·
Govt
issued recognition to 10 All India Unions (including one ED union) and FNPTO
(parallel to NFPTE), SBCO Union and Inspectors’ Association. Except last two
others (FNPTO & its affiliates) had no existence. Rammurthy being the
leader of FNPTO gave a statement in All India Radio opposing the strike calling
it a political one.
·
Still
25 lakhs CG employees participated in 1968 strike.
Penal measures taken
a)
Recognition
of the unions was withdrawn,
b)
12
employees were murdered by Police firing at Pathankot.
c)
12000
were arrested and suspended,
d)
7300
employees faced trial in the court for defiance of ordinance and/or instigation
for defiance.
e)
Termination
notices were served against 50000 temporary employees. In some cases instead of
notice one month’s salary was paid in advance and staff was relieved.
f)
During
resistance movement against penal measures Police opened fire in front of
Cossipore Gun and Shell Factory (in Calcutta) and 5 comrades were killed.
The left organizations
called 72 hours Bundh in West Bengal.
·
Five
Inspectors in West Bengal went on strike on 19th September 1968. All
were suspended. Afterwards four of them surrendered, but Com. Rabindra Lal
Bhattacharya faced Rule-14 charge sheet, reverted to clerical cadre for six
years.
·
Union’s
recognition was restored by court’s verdict. Notices for termination of service
to temporary staffs were also withdrawn by intervention of both political and
organizational levels.
·
The
political situation arisen out of 1967 general election, when Congress was
defeated in 9 states, created some favourable situation towards struggle.
Inner
Struggle Sharpened
1963 : After 6th
Federal Council in 1962 two parallel AIC of P-IV were held in Kashmir which
influenced 7th Federal Council.
1964 : The understanding
between A.S.Rajan and Rammurthy came to an end as A.S.Rajan understood the
anti-struggle approach of Rammurthy. Understanding between K.G.Bose-Rajan was
established in 1964 and continued upto 1978 or so.
1967 : There was strong
difference among the leaders about withdrawal of strike decision. Com.
K.Adinarayana, N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya etc. were against it.
It may be noted that the ideological differences in the
left movement of the country had its influence in trade union field including
employees organizations. There were various class & mass movements at one
side and attempts for class collaboration taking Pt. Nehru (afterwards Indira
Gandhi) as leader of progressive forces within Congress was also on. That had
influence on NFPTE.
1969 : All-out attempts were
made by the Govt, Congress Party and Postal administration towards growing of
FNPTO and its affiliates. But desired result could not be achieved during
consecutive three years. Domination of NFPTE among P&T workers could not be
reduced remarkably.
1971 : New game plan was
chalked out to create differences within NFPTE. Side by side new attacks were
launched in shape of reduction in number of deliveries, withdrawal of stamping
of letters with delivery stamp, withdrawal of orderly to IPOs etc. Com.
O.P.Gupta himself proposed for withdrawal of sorting section and converting
those to transit sections. Progressive leadership had to fight against all
these attempts.
·
Organizational
battle took a new shape. In P-III Jamshedpur AIC, a small group headed by Com.
A.Premnathan and K.L.Moza walked out and formed a committee. Conference elected
a team of leaders headed by K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan.
1972 : In Howrah Conference
of P-IV similar incident took place though there was no walk-out or strong difference
of opinions in the house.
·
Federal
Council in Kolkata faced similar attack. NFPTE was divided into two --- one led
by K.G.-Rajan and another by O.P.Gupta.
·
Confederation
was also divided by convening a meeting by S.Madhusudan during absence of Com.
Vyas. That meeting expelled Com. Vyas and N.J.Iyer and elected Madhusudan as
Secretary General.
·
Govt
recognized the body of the break away groups.
New
setup in labour movement
1970 : Centre of Indian
Trade Unions (CITU) was formed by the progressive forces in the labour movement
owing to undemocratic and class-collaborative line adopted by the AITUC
leaders.
1971 : National Council of
Trade Unions was formed comprising of AITUC, INTUC and H.M.S. at the initiative
of the then labour minister Mr. Khadilkar and direct patronization of Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi.
·
From a largely attended convention in New Delhi at
the initiative of CITU United Council of Trade Unions came into existence.
Besides CITU, HMP, UTUC, TUCC, A.I.Insurance Employees Asscn and NFPTE, headed
by Com. K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan, joined that forum.
·
While
National Council of Trade Unions supported all steps taken by Ms. Indira
Gandhi, United Council of Trade Unions fought against the policy of wage
freeze, amendment of Labour Law and attack on democratic and trade union rights
during national emergency.
·
O.P.Gupta
group openly supported national emergency and 20-point program of National
Congress Party headed by Indira Gandhi.
·
During
emergency it was decided by the Govt to reduce 10% of D.A. and impose ½ % cut
on each installment of D.A. at that time. Com. N.J.Iyer, K.Adinarayana,
S.K.Vyas opposed emergency. Protest movement was launched against D.A cut by
these leaders.
Main difference within the trade unions and
employees organisations was based on the class outlook.
A section thought that Indira Gandhi, who decided to nationalize Banking
service and abolished the privy
purse, was progressive. But those decisions were taken as results of class and mass struggle.
So, the path of struggle was the correct one and not to find favour of the
Ruling Class. That struggle is still
continuing.
1970 : Third Pay Commission
was announced on 23.4.1970, with Raghubir Dayal as Chairman, H.N.Roy as
member-secretary and historian Dr. Nihar Ranjan Roy, Prof A.K.Dasgupta, Dr.
V.R.Pillai as members.
Need-based minimum wage was the
main issue.
·
On
7th October 1970 a separate committee for ED employees was formed
with the retired officer Madan Kishore as Chairman.
·
Interim
Relief of Rs.70/- for regular employees and Rs.35/- for ED employees were
demanded to maintain parity with the undertaken sectors.
·
3rd
Pay Commission granted Rs.15/- at lowest level and Rs.45/- at higher levels as
interim relief. In case of ED employees the amount was Rs.4/- and Rs.8/-
respectively.
This shows the
approach and outlook of the CPC and ED committee. Protest programs were
organized.
1972
: Based on the recommendation of Bonus
Commission set up by Central Govt, demand for bonus for C.G. employees was
raised.
·
According
to Bonus Commission Bonus was not a part of profit. Bonus is a deferred wage.
·
Madhu
Dhandavate placed a bill in the Parliament to that effect.
·
A
Bonus Convention was convened jointly by Confederation and A.I. State Govt
Employees Federation on 10th December 1970 at West Patelnagar, New
Delhi, on the demand ---- ‘Bonus For All’.
·
Rail
and Defence Employees Federations were approached to be the convener of the
convention, but they did not agree. Com. O.P.Gupta also denied.
·
Struggle
for Bonus to Central Govt employees started from that convention and it was
achieved in 1979. At the beginning there was doubt amongst a section of
employees because of the strong opinion expressed by the leaders like O.P.Gupta
and others. But the demand could be settled by way of determined struggle
launched by the progressive leadership.
·
1972 : Madan Kishore
Committee submitted its report in May 1972. In para 15.2 the committee opined: ‘if the working hours of the ED offices were
reduced to two hours one crore rupees would be saved by the Govt per year.’
The approach was quite clear. The
committee further opined: ‘crores of
rupees are spent by the Govt for payment of D.A. and D.A. increase speed up the
price rise.’
The process for granting ad-hoc
increase @5:2 in lieu of D.A. proposed to be discontinued by the committee
though the D.A. was not the subject matter of the committee. Govt accepted the
proposal. But because of de-recognition and disunity NFPTE could not build up
any effective movement. O.P.Gupta was not at all agreeable to any agitation.
On 12th
December 1972 a massive demonstration on ED-demand was held at Board Club
Maidan by the KG-Rajan group. Left MPs raised the ED demands in Parliament.
1973 : 3rd CPC
report was placed in the Parliament on 31st March. According to the
15th International Labour Convention (ILC) norm, minimum pay should
have been Rs.350/- per month. Demand of staff side was Rs.250/- p.m. to have
parity with the undertaking sector.
·
Pay
Commission recommended Rs.185/- p.m. as minimum, though they agreed that
Rs.196/- p.m. should be the minimum wage if the expenses for vegetarian were
taken into account. But they recommended Rs.185/- to reduce the pressure on
Govt exchequer.
·
The
CPC recommended following principle for grant of D.A. :
DA would be
admissible on 8-point price rise in 12 months, pay range upto Rs.350/- at 3.5%
with highest limit of Rs.10/-; pay range above Rs.350/- up to Rs.900/- at 2.5%
with highest limit of Rs.20/-.
Fixing of higher
limit deprived a section of employees from proper neutralization.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions opined that these recommendations were nothing but an
attack on working people at large.
·
No
negotiation could change the recommendations as per demand of the staff side.
So, confrontation became inevitable.
1974
: AIRF convened a convention of all
Central Govt employees organizations on 15th March 1974.
Confederation, both groups of NFPTE, FNPTO joined that convention. But other
organizations linked with INTUC did not join. The convention opined for a joint
strike if the demands were not settled by 10th April 1974.
·
All
the unions of Railway except INTUC formed a joint forum named National
Coordination Committee for Railwaymen’s Struggle (NCCRS).
·
All
India State Govt Employees Federation went on strike on 7th April
1974 in which change of recommendations of 3rd CPC was one of the
demands.
·
Loco
Running Staff Association went on work-to-rule from 15th April 1974.
NCCRS decided to launch continuous strike from 6 A.M., 8th May
1974.
·
S.Madhusudan
brought out a bulletin in the name of Confederation discouraging strike action.
·
NFPTE
headed by KG-Rajan group convened a meeting of all circle secretaries.
O.P.Gupta was also invited there. Guptaji told that he could not allow the
employees to go on strike and beaten by the Govt because of disunity. However,
the meeting decided to go on work-to-rule on 8th & 9th
May and strike from 10th May 1974 on own charter of demands.
·
Railwaymen’s
strike started on 8th May amidst massive attack, torture and arrest.
The water and electric connections to the staff quarters were cut.
·
Strike
of Central Govt employees under the leadership of S.K.Vyas, KG-Rajan could not
continue for more than three days. The class collaborationists came out in an
organized way to break the strike.
O.P.Gupta
managed 20% LSG promotion and launched anti-strike propaganda over phone.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions organized country-wide strike on 15th May
1974 in which Confederation also gave a call to participate.
·
1974
strike brought forward the question of unity as a prime need to safeguard the
interest of the employees. Actually disunity spread out upto the level of
branch level at the initiative of the leaders headed by O.P.Gupta. their target
was to cripple the way of struggle. 1974 strike projected that the
anti-struggle leadership was successful to some extent to weaken the movement.
·
An
ordinance was promulgated to keep 50% of DA increase in deposit and refund the
same afterwards in five installments. Need for resistance movement felt by
everybody.
·
22nd
August 1974 an order of bifurcation of P&T department was issued. But the
same was not implemented for reasons best known to the Govt.
·
Though
unity talk in P&T started in 1972 itself, K.G.Bose from his death-bed wrote
several letters for unity. The approach of KG-Rajan was to establish unity by
holding joint conference and electing leader democratically. O.P.Gupta was in
favour of post sharing as he had no majority in P-IV, RMS-III and NFPTE. The
convention held on 11.12.1972 decided to have democratic election at all
levels.
1975 : On 2nd June
some sorts of unity in P-III became possible. A list of office bearers by way
of post sharing was prepared and submitted. Govt recognized that list on 23rd
September 1975. But recognition to O.P.Gupta’s body in NFPTE was withdrawn for
non-holding of conference.
1976 : Federal Council was
invited from 6th to 8th August 1976 with a view to
establish unity. Because of disunity between O.P.Gupta and K.L.Moza and
Premnathan disunity took a new shape. Two sets of office bearers were claimed
to be elected in that Council.
1977 : Congress Party was
miserably defeated in Parliament election. A coalition Govt was formed at the
center for the first time under the leadership of Janata Party. Left parties
supported that Govt from outside.
1977 : Supreme Court gave
its landmark judgement stating ED employees holder of civil posts.
1978 : In the next assembly
elections Congress party was defeated again. In West Bengal and Kerala Left
parties came to power. Regional parties came to power in various states. Left
parties took a different way of development giving priority to the interests of
downtrodden within the frame wall of capitalist-feudal regime.
·
The
Janata Govt announced withdrawal of 1960, 1968, 1974 disabilities and
punishments awarded to the Govt employees. The Govt withdrew many of the
punishments including dismissals but not all.
·
The
Govt recognized the set of office bearers with D.Gnaniya as Secretary General
of NFPTE. D.Gnaniya decided to resolve the organizational disputes by way of
mutual discussions and arriving at consensus or by way of democratic elections.
In this process overall unity could be restored.
·
A
panel was set up with S.Bhuthalingam as chairman on 11.10.1977 to evolve the
principle for wages and income. The panel proposed minimum wage of Rs.100/-.
But that proposal was not in conformity with the fair wage and price policy of
Janata Party announced in their election manifesto. On the other hand the
lowest wage of ED employees was Rs.85/- for two hours duty. The wage of a Group-D
employee of that time was Rs.92.85 for two hours. Govt could not implement the
proposal because of strong resistance from the unions and supporting left
parties.
·
An
arbitration was constituted with J.S.Bedi as chairman for finalization of
principle for granting D.A. The terms of references were:
1.
First
nine installment of DA merger with pay.
2.
Refund
of DA installments withheld during emergency.
3.
Refund
of the amount of DA withdrawn during emergency.
The Govt did not announce
the report of the arbitration. They tried to settle the merger issue with some
conditionality, but were not ready to settle other issues. So, the differences
between Govt and staff side remain unsettled.
·
During
this period the Communication Minister himself gave birth to Bharatiya P&T
Employees Federation (BPTEF).
1976 : To celebrate silver
jubilee of NFPTE a national convention was convened at Patna where the
leadership comprising of divisional secretary, circle secretary, CHQ and
Federation assembled.
- Discussion
on ED demands was held one day. A 12 point charter of demands was
enumerated. To popularize these demands holding of circle and divisional
conferences was decided.
- Other
problems viz., wage parity with undertaking sector, running scale to
avoid stagnation, bonus and two promotions were discussed and decided to
be pursued in coming days.
- But
the path for achievement of these demands was decided to be negotiated
settlement and practically dropped the way of negotiation backed by
movement.
1979/1980 : Productivity-liked
Bonus was announced ---- employees discriminated.
·
Unabated
price rise, non-settlement of full neutralisation, non-payment of due D.A.
installments, shortage of staff, scanty accommodation, non-restoration of DA to
ED employees, removal of discrimination on bonus and non-settlement of two
promotions etc. were agitating the minds of C.G. employees at large.
·
C.M.Stephen,
the then communication minister, raised a slogan of ‘discipline, skill and
responsibility’. But he was not ready to accept the concept that because of
exploitation deterioration of discipline, skill and responsibility occur.
·
Indira
Gandhi returned to power in midterm poll consequent of Janata Party’s defection
on the debate of dual membership of Janata Party and RSS. Bharatiya Janata
Party was formed at the instances of RSS and they came out from Janata Govt.
·
Confederation
decided some demonstrative movement. NFPTE decided to go on strike in July
1981. Attempts were made to unify three federations in that struggle. Strike
ballot was conducted.
1981 : The Govt promulgated
an ordinance preventing all strike actions. NFPTE leadership decided to conduct
hunger fast program from 12th October and non-cooperation by all.
Com. K.L.Moza informed the Govt that he (P-III) would not join the strike. He
separately gave strike notice to halt withdrawal of savings bank from post
office. But none of the action programs was materialized.
·
The
ordinance was subsequently converted into an act. National Campaign Committee
was formed at the initiative of CITU and excepting INTUC. The committee decided
following action:
1.
17th
August 1981 è
Black Day against the act.
2.
21st
November 1981 à March to Parliament.
3.
19th
January 1982 à
Bharat Bundh.
A section of INTUC (Dara
Group) joined the program.
1982 : The Govt was
propagating since 1980 that staff side should choose anyone of the demands and
the same would be settled. Rest of the demands would be kept pending upto March
1983. Those who were not connected with productivity could not get bonus. A
section of leadership of both NFPTE and Confederation were agreeable to accept
this proposal. But for opposition of the rest of the leaders and the leaders of
AIDEF no agreement was possible.
·
Agitation
started at the joint call of Confederation and AIDEF but it could not create
any pressure on the Govt. Massive attack let loose by the Govt at various
places.
·
4th
CPC was announced on 28th February 1982 in the Parliament. The
proposal for bipartite wage agreement mooted early was practically abandoned.
·
Proposal
for Rs.140/- as interim relief was turned down in connivance with anti-struggle
forces. 4th CPC was constituted with Justice P.N.Mathur as the
chairman, Prof Mathur, M.V.Kakkar, Gopaldas Nag as members and A.K. Majumder as
member-secretary. Induction of employees representative in CPC was not also
accepted.
·
O.P.Gupta
gave consent to refer all the pending demands to CPC. In seventh Federal
Council O.P.Gupta moved a proposal to accept two promotions on matching-savings
which was opposed by N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya, K.Adinarayana, Sadaram
Tanwar, P.N.Mehta etc.
·
In
replying to the debate on need-based minimum wages to the Central Govt
employees the then Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee opined that the employees
may be agitated for need-based minimum wages or for wage parity with
undertaking sector for another hundred years, but Govt would pay which it
could.
·
Despite
disunity in thinking on various aspects amongst the leaders an unified approach
was reflected in the memorandum to 4th CPC. Wage parity was the
central point in the demand to CPC.
·
1983 : Curtailment in number
of deliveries in metro cities was started in Calcutta. A resistance movement
succeeded at initial stage by way of agitation at circle level. But over the
years curtailment of delivery was imposed despite strike action at various
places.
1984 : Ban on recruitment
and creation of posts were imposed for six months from 01.01.1984 and
afterwards that ban continued till date.
·
Non-settlement
of demands of ED employees specially the issue of restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) was agitating the minds of ED employees. NFPTE leadership took little
interest to resolve the issues. Even serious negotiation on 12 point charter of
demands as decided in Patna Convention was also lacking.
·
Considering
the circumstances p-IV CWC decided to launch one-day token strike exclusively
on ED demands viz., interim relief to ED employees, restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) since 01.01.1973 and other proportionate facilities. 19th
September 1984 was the date of strike. P-III CHQ despite having ED membership
did not take any decision to join or lend any support to that strike action.
FNPTO opposed the strike throughout the country.
·
Class-III
circle secretaries in Kerala, West Bengal and Assam decided to join the strike.
The strike was a success. Class-III union at different places joined the
strike.
·
One
ED committee was formed by the Govt with R.R.Savoor, a retired officer of the
department as chairman on 5h November 1984.
·
156
RMS sorting sections were ordered to be closed. It was also decided to close
down SROs. Five installments of DA became due. Govt was delaying its decision
on DA. Of course, one promotion at 16 years of service on matching savings was
introduced. Grant of interim relief was being delayed.
·
The
doors of JCM were closed. Formal meetings with heads of administration were
stooped. So, there was no scope for negotiation.
1985 : RMS & MMS
Class-III unions decided to go on token strike on 6th June 1985. The
strike was a grand success. In this case NFPTE could not give any positive call
for solidarity except to do whatever possible.
·
After
6th June, six RTP staff were not allowed to join in West Bengal.
Both R-III & R-IV started cease work program. No decision was forthcoming
to reinstate the RTP staff. The Chief Minister of West Bengal Com. Jyoti Basu
intervened and got the issue settled. Employees were enthused very much.
·
P&T
department was bifurcated into two from 01.01.1985 by an announcement. Formal
notification was made on 4th June 1985. The reason, as told, was to
modernize the telecom service by its profit, which was so long was utilised to
subsidize the loss of Postal services. Communication Minister announced to
mobilize fund by selling bonds for modernization. Such contradiction existed.
NFPTE did neither want such bifurcation, nor protested against such action.
O.P.Gupta was the Secretary General at that time. In a press release he
mentioned the possibilities of corporatisation and privatization. But the
proposal was not opposed.
·
Efforts towards bifurcation of Federation :
In April 1985 a
debate took place in P-III CWC about bifurcation of Federation. Three comrades
opposed the proposal. An argument was raised that the Postal leaders of NFPTE
may not be accepted by the Telecom authorities and likewise the Postal
authorities may not accept the leaders belonging to Telecom to discuss the
problems.
·
On
9th December 1985 Department of Personnel instructed NFPTE to
constitute two Federations according to departmental set up.
·
A
section of leaders were of the opinion that Postal wing can move towards
achievement of their demands by way of struggle, though they were against
bifurcation.
·
18th
Federal Council of NFPTE was held in Calcutta from 17th to 19th
March 1985 at Oswal Bhavan. After discussion two Federations, viz., National
Federation of Telecom Employees (NFTE) and National Federation of Postal
Employees (NFPE) were constituted. It was also decided that NFPTE would also
remain. A body was also selected, but to no effect. Though most of the
delegates wanted Com. Adi as Secretary General but for the sake of unity Com.
K.L.Moza was accepted as Secretary General.
·
1986
: The Outlook of 4th CPC
:
‘In regard to payment of
wages how much the employer can pay is the main feature and that aspect has been
carefully considered.’ (Para 7.67)
As
regards wage parity the CPC opined that during 1970-71 and 1984-85, 344% wage
increase took place in
undertaking sector. It would not be wise to thrust upon so much burden on the
Govt. (Para 5.12) 4th CPC recommended 20% wage
increase at lowest level and Rs.900/- at highest level. It, however, recommended a concrete D.A.
formula of granting DA at the interval of six months (at the end of June and December) on 12 monthly
average increases in price index.
Main Thrust of Savoor Committee :
The committee proposed to abolish ED Nightguard, ED Chowkidar, Sweeper,
Safaiwala, Farash etc. and to entrust
the job to contingent-paid employees. Abolition of the posts of orderly to Inspectors
and mail overseers were also
proposed. Another proposal was to close down EDBOs, which were unremunerative and to introduce
Licensed Agency services at the cost of Rs.50/- each. In short, the committee proposed cheaper postal
system.
The positive side of the report was to introduce allowances
proportionate to regular employees.
The Govt accepted most of the recommendations of Savoor Committee and a
large number of contingent-paid employees
were engaged in pace of ED employees. It was ensured by the Unions/Federation that none of the ED
employees was retrenched. Contingent-paid employees would be engaged only in vacant posts.
JOURNEY OF
NFPE
NFPE has crossed 27 years of its journey. During this period NFPE has
built up joint movement of Postal
Workers, strengthened the movement led by Confederation and linked the Postal
movement to main stream of
struggle.
1987 : A call of seven days’
strike could be given by NFPE, FNPO and BPEF. For the first time problem of
postal services were included in the charter.
Though the strike did not take place, an agreement was reached by the
department and the Federations at the instances of Chief Central Labour
Commissioner.
1989 : Govt did not
implement most of the items of the agreement. As a result NFPE decided to
organize strike action. But other Federations did not agree. NFPE went alone to
conduct token strike in 1989.
·
A
nationwide strike was organized by left trade unions against the misrule of
Rajiv Gandhi to
have an alternative. NFPE / Confederation could not give a concrete call.
Advice was given to do whatever possible in support of strike.
·
Requirement
of struggle at departmental level and against the policy of the Govt. was
there. But NFPE leadership, specially Com. Moza tried to limit the
organizational efforts to settle the fringe benefit related issues but was not
in a mood to oppose the postal policy which was against the interest of the
service as well as of the employees.
1991
: Second promotion on matching
savings was achieved.
1992 : In third Federal
Council at Dharwar the progressive leadership headed by N.J.Iyer and
K.Adinarayana was established. Not only that, the Council decided to join the main stream of struggle as a policy. Since then postal
employees became an integral part of
national mass movement. Such stand influenced Confederation which also
became part of national movement.
1993 : An united strike struggle became possible for four days by three Federations, All India
Postal Accounts Staff Association and Association of IPOs & IRMs. A strike
call was given by that joint forum. Such unity did not last for a considerable
period, although Postal Accounts Employees Association became the partner of
NFPE.
·
NFPE
launched strike struggle in 1996, 1998 and 2000 for 6 days, 8 days and 14 days
respectively. In 1996 bonus ceiling was enhanced. In 1998 scale of allowance
with increment, leave with allowances and some other financial demands of ED
and regular employees were settled. But in 2000 such notable achievement was
not there.
These strike struggles
brought two major questions forward, viz., whether extra-militancy was being
exhibited by NFPE and strike should be organized to achieve something.
During these periods
of struggles membership of NFPE increased in various parts of the country but in weaker states
employees got a belief that NFPE and FNPO are the struggling organisations. The differences
between two Federations could not be established by the leaders exhibiting their fighting spirit and sacrifice.
·
Inner
contradiction within NFPE leadership was also there. After Dharwar K.L.Moza was
replaced by R.A.P.Singh in P-III with a view to strengthen NFPE. Later
R.A.P.Singh (popularly known as Masterji) became critical of NFPE
leadership after 1998 strike though he was taken into confidence by the
leaders.
·
Introduction
of CCS(RSA) Rules 1993 and 1995 was fought together. But there were some soft
corners to check-off system on the part of a section of leadership because of
the fact that amount of collection of subscription would be more and that too
without devoting any labour.
·
After
introduction of New Recognition Rules formation of ED Union at various levels
could be possible without much difference. All India leadership was also chosen
by a consensus amongst the leaders. Change over of leadership to serving
employees was also based on consensus.
2002 : Complications arose
after release of recognition rules for the Federations. Federal Council held in
October 2002 in Kolkata exhibited a sharp difference. There were certain
impacts of last ED All India Conference held at Tamilnadu where money power and
muscle power were exhibited. Attempts were made to combine R-IV,GDS union and
major chunk of P-III against NFPE leadership. But due to the role played by the
President and G.S. of P-III, functional unity of NFPE could be preserved.
·
The
main issue for consideration before the progressive forces was how to establish pro-NFPE leadership in GDS Union and also in
P-III afterwards. In Jwalamukhi AIC of P-III the team headed by M.Krishnan and
K.V.Sridharan took over and tried to streamline the organisation to strengthen
NFPE and to fulfill the requirement of struggle.
·
After
fifth CPC and Geethakrishnan Commission’s recommendation the Govt took their
efforts to outsource and curtailed the postal services with view to
privatization. Various programs including strike action were launched and
compelled the Govt not to reduce the postal service by introducing licensed
agency, Panchayet Sanchar Seva Yojana, closure of single and double-handed post
offices and lastly closure of 9797 post offices. These were the great
achievements during the regime of Neo-liberal economy.
2008 onwards : General
Secretary of sole recognized GDS Union failed to maintain unity of postal
movement being the part of NFPE. His call for fragmented strike from 18th
December 2008 jeopardised the attempt of joint movement and placed the
settlement of GDS demands in back foot. It became impossible to continue with
him in the interest of GDS employees and joint movement as well. Under this
compelling situation NFPE had to organize the GDS Union separately and fight. Inner
struggle in the organisation should not stop ---- this is the heritage of NFPE.
NOTES ON HISTORY OF
P&T MOVEMENT
Com. Shibsankar Roy, West Bengal, Ex. Assistant General
Secretary AIPEU Gr.-C
Towards formation of Union
1904
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee submitted first memorandum on problems of
employees in Kolkata GPO. The memorandum was signed by the employees, who on
being asked by the Presidency Postmaster withdrew their signature. Babu
Tarapada boldly faced the queries of the PPM. Some of the problems were
redressed.
1905
: Postal Club was established in Bombay (presently Mumbai).
1906
: i) A meeting was held to form an organization in Kolkata at the
initiative of Babu Tarapada. But no decision could be made for the fear of the
employees.
ii) In the second meeting also no
decision could be taken.
iii) Indian Telegraph Association was
formed at the initiative of Henry Barton. This was the first Govt recognized
organization.
1907
: i) Second memorandum was prepared and submitted by Babu Tarapada. This
time most of the employees signed the memorandum.
ii) A demand was placed before the authorities to get permission for
formation of Postal Club.
1908
: i) The Telegraphists went on continuous strike at the call of Indian
Telegraph Association.
ii) Babu Tarapada Mukherjee called
upon the Postal Signallers not to perform the job of Telegraphists during
strike. The Postmaster General threatened Babu Tarapada, who was transferred to
Purnea at once. But the incident created positive impact. Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee handed over charge as SPM, Entally. He acquired a rented house at
162, Bowbazar Street and established the Calcutta Postal Club in first part of
May 1908 and left for Purnea. This club acted as union till 1920.
iii) Postmen in Kolkata went on strike
for wage revision owing to price-rise.
iv) Organisation was grown in various
places ---
Postal League was formed in
Dhacca at the initiative of Babu Sarat Chandra Sen, organisation was built up
in Bombay, Ahmedabad, Satara, Kanpur, Lahore, Lucknow, Madras and other places.
1913
: Third memorandum was prepared and submitted on the demands of Postal and
RMS workers like wage revision, time test and others.
1918
: Postmen of Bombay went on strike which continued for 145 days. The
striking employees sought for advice from V.G.Dalvi, who advised to form a
union. This was the first step towards formation of Postmen and Lower Grade
Staff Union.
1919
: Dada Ghosh (Bhupendranath Ghosh) entered into service. India Rules 1919
was introduced. In it’s Section 96(B) conduct rules of Govt. employees were
incorporated.
0
1920 : i) Postal Inquiry
Committee was formed by the Govt to examine the service conditions of Postal
Workers.
ii) The leaders of Postal Workers
from various parts of the country came over to Simla to give witness to Postal
Inquiry Committee. They met and discussed on formation of All India
Organisation. Babu Tarapada drafted the constitution in consultation with all
the leaders present. Leaders agreed to form All India Union by holding
conference. The draft constitution was sent to various states to get it
discussed and adopted.
All India Post Office and RMS
Union was formed in the All India Conference held in Delhi from 24th
September 1920 to 26th September 1920.
1921
: i) All India Conference was held at Lahore. Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
elected as President of that A.I.C. At that time, wife of Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee was in death-bed. He was in dilemma about what to do. But Sulakshna
Debi encouraged her husband so that he could attend the AIC and fulfill the
expectation of the Postal and RMS workers.
Babu Tarapada not only attended the
conference but also delivered a historic presidential speech exposing the
deplorable condition of Postal workers and criticizing the British govt for
which he was charge sheeted.
The
defence statement submitted by Babu Tarapada is also a historic document. An
offer was given to him to apologize, but he refused boldly. He told that what
he had stated in his speech was the living experience of the Postal workers.
Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
served with order of termination on 20th November 1921 and his wife
expired on 29.11.1921. Two serious attacks came to his life at a time.
ii)
The Calcutta Postal Club immediately decided to raise fund for livelihood of
Babu Tarapada by the way of enhancing the rate of monthly subscription.
iii) All India Post Office and RMS Union
Bengal Circle, in their Circle Council meeting decided to compensate the salary
of Babu Tarapada as paid while in service.
iv) Contributions also came from Burma and
from Madras Circle.
1922
: i) In the All India Conference Babu Tarapada was elected as General
Secretary of the Union defying the Recognition Rules which provided that no
punished employee could be elected as office bearer of the union. Still the delegates
courageously elected a retrenched employee as their leader.
ii) As Central Union would take the
responsibility to disburse the salary of the G.S., Babu Tarapada purchased a
small building at 12, Chhaku Khansama Lane in Kolkata and started functioning
of the Central Union from there. Such arrangement continued till 1927, when the
Central Union was shifted to New Delhi.
1929
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee expired on 20th September at 3-45 P.M.
in the Central Union office.
Achievements
of Babu Tarapada
- The
strength of the union was consolidated.
- Re-instatement
of retrenched employees.
- Change
in the time test.
- Introduction
of time scale.
Dada Ghosh came
forward as a leading functionary of the union.
The leaders of the Calcutta Postal
Club decided to erect a building in the memory of Babu Tarapada utilizing the
fund accumulated in their hand from the subscription raised by them and
donations sent by Burma and Madras comrades. Foundation stone was laid in 1930
at 37 Ganesh Chandra Avenue owned by the Calcutta Postal Club. Postal and RMS
unions are still now functioning from that building.
1929
: i) Great depression started in capitalist economy. British Govt
constituted a committee --- ‘Committee on Retrenchment’ popularly known as
Zahangir Committee.
The Zahangir Committee
proposed :
- To
stop recruitment.
- To
reduce the working strength.
- To
reduce the wages by 10 percent.
- To
augment ED post parallel to each regular cadre in Postal Dept.
ii) Trade Dispute Act
was modified to curb the people’s agitation.
1931 : i) Emergency Reduction Rules
1931 was introduced to reduce the number of employees.
ii) Dada Ghosh proposed to launch
work-to-rule to face the attack.
1932 : Recognition of All India Post
Office and RMS Union was withdrawn.
1934 : Wage cut was introduced. Govt
saved Rs. 2 Crore 75 lakhs. Pasricha Postal Inquiry Committee was constituted
by the Govt. After implementation of its report, disparity increased.
1935 : Section 96(B) of India Rules 1919 was amended to curb the
trade Union activity of Govt. employees.
1936
: Strike was launched.
1937
: Stay-in demonstration was treated as absence and pay cut was imposed by
amending Payment of Wages Act.
1939
: i) Demand for D.A. as a separate component of salary was raised. During
thirties posts of 18 categories namely, ED Sub-Postmaster, ED sorter, ED
packer, ED Farash, ED Chowkidar, ED Nightguard, ED Mali, ED Mail Carrier, ED
Messenger etc. were introduced to reduce the cost of Postal Dept.
ii) It was necessary to launch
struggle to resist these onslaughts. Instead of unity disunity took place.
Following new unions were formed :
§ Town Inspector and
Inspector Association.
§ PMG Office Staff
Union.
§ Muslim Postal and RMS
Union.
Prior to that the following
unions existed :
§ Indian Telegraph
Association.
§ All India Telegraph
Union.
§ All India Postmen and
Lower Grade Staff Union.
§ All India Post Office
and RMS Union.
Dada Ghosh came in the leadership of Bengal Circle after the demise of
Babu Tarapada..
iii) During Second World War
various parts of Bengal, Assam, Burma and coastal part of Orissa were badly
affected by bombing of Japanese forces. People at large evacuated. Postal
workers were also evacuating.
iv) Dada Ghosh gave a call to stay
at work place and serve the people. He was thinking to visit the affected areas
and meet the workers for their moral boost up. He was in a dilemma because his
wife was seriously ill. His younger son was also ill.
v) Ultimately he took leave and
went on tour. His presence in the affected areas enthused the P&T workers.
But when he returned home he saw that his wife died in his absence. Few days
later his younger son also expired. Dada Ghosh was so moved with grief and
sorrow that he resigned from the post of union. But after 2/3 days he withdrew
his resignation at the request of his followers.
1942
: Director General on 18th December called a round table
conference where union representatives raised the demand to grant D.A. as a
separate element of salary. Unanimity was developed on granting Rs.5/- as D.A.
on 20 point price-rise. During World War there was unprecedented price-rise. The
situation brought various unions nearer.
Secretary of State’s (Conduct) Rules
1942 were promulgated. Section 4 A and B provided retrenchment of employees for
staging demonstration. So many postal comrades were punished by this rules and
also protested against by unions.
1943
: The Govt declared P&T, Railway and some other departments as
essential and militarise those departments. Most of the P&T workers joined
Defence of India Army to have free uniform, Ration Allowance and Military
Compensatory Allowance with a view to have some relief for their livelihood.
1944
: In All India Conference of All India Post Office and RMS Union it was
reviewed that price index had raised to 320 points in comparison to pre-war
period. Demand for wage increase was raised.
1946
: i) There was continuous attempt to unite all the unions. On the 24th
January 1946, Federation of Postal and Telegraph Union was formed under the
leadership of Dewan Chamanlal. All India Postmen and Lower Grade Staff Union
did not join the Federation.
ii) All India Postmen and Lower
Grade Staff Union and Federation jointly served strike notice on 24th
February 1946.
iii) Govt set up adjudication headed
by a High Court Judge Rajadhaksya. That adjudicator recommended Rs.5/- to
Rs.15/- for non-gazetted staff.
iv) Federation at this stage
withdrew the strike notice.
v) On 10th May 1946 Govt
set up first Pay Commission headed by a judge of Federal Court Srinibas
Baradachariya. Thus there were two commissions on wage review at a time. This
created much confusion.
vi) The decision to wear Hungry
Badge was withdrawn by Federation. That program was implemented by All
India Post Office and RMS Union in Bengal, Assam and in some parts of Bihar.
vii) Because of differences amongst
the unions no unified approach could be possible in the matter of pay revision
to First Pay Commission.
26.06.1946
: All India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union issued strike notice on 12
point demands to go on strike from 11th July 1946 midnight.
- Dewan
Chamanlal opposed the strike on behalf of Federation.
- General
Secretary of All India Telegraph Association Dr. Narona also opposed the
strike.
- The
strike was also opposed by M.A.Jabbar, General Secretary of Indian Posts
and Telegraph Association.
- Their
plea was that some issues had been under examination by adjudication and
as much the strike is unjustified.
11.07.1946
: Strike commenced at midnight. In Bombay, Assam, Bengal and Madras Postmen
strike was total. In Assam authorities directed the postmen, who are members of
All India Post Office and RMS Union and did not participate in strike, to work
in places of striking ones. The postmen as per direction of Dada Ghosh refused
to move. Some of them were suspended. So, question came before A.I. Post Office
& RMS Union how to cope up with the situation. In Calcutta, all the unions
met together and decided to join the strike. Entire Bengal Circle joined the
strike from 21st July with 3 days notice.
§ The entire telegraph
workers joined the strike under the leadership of K.G.Bose defying their all
India leadership. Comrades of Calcutta Telephones joined the strike defying the
direction of Indian Post and Telegraph Association.
§ A.I.T.U.C., the only
trade union at that time called upon the labours to go on strike as solidarity
in Bombai and Madras.
29.07.1946
: A.I.T.U.C. in Bengal and Assam gave call for Hartaal and the normal
life in both the states were totally stopped. The role played by the working
class raised this strike at a level of anti-imperialist movement.
§ At the intervention
of National leaders negotiation took place and after settlement of demands the
strike was called off on 3rd August.
§ But for Bengal circle
a separate discussion took place and the strike in Bengal Circle was called off
on 6th August.
§ Main achievements
were :
1.
Pay
structure revision.
2.
Pension
for lower grade employees.
3.
Departmental
promotion.
4.
Good
conduct pay @Rs.5/- for all non-gazetted staff including EDAs.
Lesson of the strike :
·
Necessity
for united organisation was felt.
·
Need
to join the main stream movement was felt. All India Postmen & Lower Grade
Staff Union and All India Post Office & RMS Union took affiliation of
A.I.T.U.C. in February 1947.
·
P&T
workers participated in a joint movement against their employer on common cause
which led them to form one union in one industry afterwards.
1947
: To have a unified organisation leadership held continuous dialogue from 2nd July to 5th
July 1947. constitution was drafted,
name of the unified organisation was finalized.
·
On
12th August 1947 separate conferences of all the unions were held in
New Delhi and thereafter in a joint conference ‘Union of Posts and Telegraph
Workers’ (UPTW) was formed.
·
All
India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union though joined that initiative from
very beginning could not join UPTW as because their All India conference
rejected the proposal.
1948 : A proposal for re-alignment of P&T union was prepared by
the Govt and a conference of various unions were held where 14 unions joined
the discussion. But no decision could be taken.
·
At
that time UPTW was enrolling membership, collecting subscription and getting
prepared for strike ballot. So, most of the leaders thought that the move of
the Govt is for diluting the steps of UPTW. So, they opposed the steps.
·
The
First Pay Commission failed to meet the requirement of the employees especially
in regard to pay scale and policy for granting D.A. etc. DA increase was suggested
on rise of 20 points in the price index, but they authorized the Govt to decide
the quantum of D.A., i.e., quantum of D.A. would depend on the mercy of the
Govt.
1949 : After independence
there was no change in price-rise. National leaders did not take any action
against black-marketeers, hoarders as promised. The assurances given by them to
P&T workers to resolve the problems after independence were also thrown
into dustbin. Employees had no other alternative than to resort to strike. The
Federal Council of UPTW decided to go on to strike. When preparation of that
strike was going on some leaders gave a requisition for meeting to reconsider
the strike decision. That meeting was convened at Madras.
·
The
leaders reaching Madras were arrested by Police. Some were arrested during
their journey also. More than hundred top-ranking leaders were arrested. Afterwards
their services were terminated. Some of them were brought back to service on
appeal or court orders. K.G.Bose, though
won the court case, was not allowed to join by the Telegraph authorities.
1952 : To organize one
union in one industry came up for discussion again. The proposal of the Govt
was discussed upto divisional level. Overall unanimity was reached among
leaders and their rank and file.
1954 : Ultimately on 24th November 1954, National
Federation of Post and Telegraph Employees (NFPTE) with its nine affiliated
unions were formed.
1955 : Agitation on the
demand of Festival Advance was organized in Calcutta. On 19th
October 1955 a mass deputation was organized at PMG’s office. The demand was
acceded to by the PMG. But one of the leaders of that agitation Comrade
Sarojmohan Chatterjee was retrenched from service.
·
Demand
for formation of 2nd Pay Commission was raised in the Parliament by
the MPs of various Parties.
·
Federal
Executive also raised same demand.
·
CCS
(Conducts) Rules 1955 was introduced. Section 4 A and B of previous rules
continued.
1956 : Confederation of
Central Govt Employees and Workers was constituted. Attempt was made to organize all central govt employees under
one federation/confederation but failed.
1957 : 15th Labour Conference
(tripartite) decided the norms for need-based minimum wage.
·
Demand
for the 2nd CPC was again raised in the Parliament on 17.5.1957,
that day a strong demonstration of 10,000 CG employees were staged in New Delhi
on the 2nd CPC.
·
Strike
notice was served on 21.5.1957 to launch continuous strike from 8th
August 1957.
·
Formation
of 2nd CPC was announced in the Parliament on 3rd August
1957. Sri Jagannath Das was the chairman.
·
A
separate committee (Rajan Committee) to examine the service condition of the ED
employees was formed on 5th September 1957.
1958 : Rajan Committee submitted its
report on 1st September. The report exposed :
i) historical background of
ED system.
ii) service condition (total
insecurity) at that time.
iii) wage policy so long
followed, no compensation for price rise.
Committee recommended:
i) revision of wages based on point
system, i.e., on quantum of work.
ii) adhoc increase in lieu of
D.A.
iii) promotion to regular posts
through examination.
iv) adoption of service rules
(ED Agent Conduct & Service Rules).
Above recommendations
were accepted by the Govt.
Recommendations not accepted:
i) departmentalisation of ED
employees in phased manner.
ii) house rent for office room.
iii) other facilities proportionate to regular employees like leave,
uniform etc.
1959 : Report of 2nd CPC was placed in the winter session of
Parliament. The report did not recommend:
ð
Need-based
minimum wage; so aspirations of the employees did not fulfill.
ð
On
DA issue the CPC proposed DA increase on 10-point rise in price index in one
year, but the quantum of DA would be decided by the Govt.
It proposed to increase the
working hours on Saturday and denied full trade union right.
Protest demonstration was staged
on 22nd December 1959.
All India Railwaymens Federation,
All India Defence Employees Federation and Confederation of Central Govt
Employees and Workers called continuous strike from the midnight of 11th
July 1960.
1960 : Efforts were made by
the organizations for negotiation. Some discussions were held with some
ministries at the intervention of some M.P.s but failed. Attempts were made to
meet the Prime Minister, who refused to meet. Strike became unavoidable.
·
Ordinance
was promulgated on 8th July 1960 evening declaring the strike
illegal. That ordinance provided arrest without warrant, jail for 6 months and
a fine of Rs.200/- in case of violation of ordinance. In case of instigation
jail for one year and fine of Rs.2000/- was prescribed.
·
Recognition
of 85 unions and Federations was withdrawn. Police started harassing the
employees before the strike took place.
·
Barring
Congress and Janasangha all the political parties supported the strike. AITUC,
Hind Majdoor Sabha (HMS), State Govt Employees Organisations supported the
strike.
·
Slanderous
campaign moved on in All India Radio after the provocating speech given by the
Prime Minister himself.
STRIKE
COMMENCED
:
·
That
was the first joint action of all Central Govt Employees against the stand
taken by their employer.
·
There
was no all-out strike. Strike in Bombay, Nagpur, Kolkata, Bangalore was almost
total.
·
On
13th & 14th, participation in P&T increased but
that in Railways decreased.
·
On
14th, Hartaal was organized at various places at the
initiative of AITUC & HMS.
·
JCA
decided to withdraw the strike on 16th and called upon all the
employees to join on 17th July 1960.
·
The
first ever joint action of Central Govt Employees was brutally attacked by the
Central Govt.
·
80% of P&T
workers went on strike. The Central Govt admitted that 17.6 lakh man-days were
lost and the Govt had to suffer a loss of 2 crores of Rupees.
·
While
the Congress leaders and their family members came out as volunteers to break
the strike the Communist Party mobilized in favour of strike.
1960
: Penal measures taken :
·
5
Railway employees were shot dead at Chahod. Another 9 were killed at Police
firing at various places. Total 17780 employees were arrested. Total suspension
was 27098 including the arrested. 6000 temporary employees were retrenched
straightway. Another 6000 were dismissed on being jailed. Penal measures
against 45945 employees were taken.
·
Lists
of suspended and dismissed officials were displayed at the office gate and they
were not allowed to enter the office. Those who ere allowed to join had to sign
an undertaking that he did wrong in joining the strike and would never
participate in any strike in future.
·
Public
opinion could be mobilized by the Communist Party of India by organizing mass
campaign throughout the country against such massive penalization and
ultimately the Govt had to consider the appeals and petitions and reduced the
larger section of penal measures.
1960
: After The Strike :
·
JCA
met on 28,29 & 30th July 1960 and decided seven joint tasks ---
i) get the arrested
employees released.
ii) halt the
processes of departmental proceedings.
iii) halt the fresh
processes of departmental proceedings.
iv) to reduce the
jail terms.
v) reinstatement of
dismissed employees.
vi) to stop the
punishments of territorial army.
vii) restoration of
union’s recognitions.
·
Steps
were also taken to consolidate the strength and unity amongst workers. But it
was hardly possible because of administrative atrocities.
·
The
stand taken by the Central JCA to launch work-to-rule was withdrawn
unilaterally by them without consulting the state-level leaders. This stand did
harm to the organisation, especially to face the victimizations.
·
The
strike brought the necessity for a machinery to resolve the labour dispute.
1961 : Recognition was
restored by a court verdict. But it took more time to restore normal
functioning.
·
The
ordinance (Essential Services Maintenance Ordinance) promulgated by the Central
Govt before the strike was enacted subsequently. A bill was also prepared,
namely, Industrial Relations Bill in which Joint Consultative Machinery was
provided. That bill also provided some provisions for recognition of unions and
associations :
a) the organisation should
have support of at least 15 % of employees /workers.
b) in order to participate
in JCM support of 35% would be required.
c) no outsider could hold
any post of the union.
d) membership verification
would be conducted at par with labour unions.
1962 : In 6th
Federal Council of NFPTE the contradiction between two lines came in the
forefront, viz,
Resolution moved by
K.Rammurthy proposed the way of negotiation to achieve the demands while that
moved by R.P.Chatterjee proposed the way of struggle and agitation. Such
differences influenced the organisation for years to come and still that
difference is there in the organisation covertly.
·
Another
difference also came out in that resolution. Rammurthy proposed that Chinese
Army attacked India in the border where as R.P.Chatterjee explained the event
as border dispute and to be settled through negotiations.
·
Despite
those debates P&T workers donated Rs.45,000/- to Defence of India Fund.
1962 : National Emergency
was declared during India-China border dispute. It was decided in a meeting
between the Home Minister and Central Govt Employees that they would deposit a
portion of their earnings in the
following way :
1.
1%
of income in compulsory deposit scheme.
2.
1%
of income in savings certificate or Defence Bond.
1963 : In the Union Budget for the year 1963-64 it was
enacted that the employees who were not in the purview of income tax will have
to save money in the following manner :
Provident Fund è 6%
Compulsory Deposit
Scheme è 1%
Savings Certificate è 1%
According to new act è 3% } Total 11% per month
Protest demonstration
was launched on 8th August 1963 at the call of Confederation.
·
Condition
of the Central Govt employees were dismal, because wholesale price-index
increased by 6.4% in 1962-63 in comparison to 1952-53. Expenditure for
livelihood increased by 40% during that period.
·
A
review carried out by The Times of India went to show that monthly requirement
of lower-middle class family required Rs.115/- to Rs.140/- per month. But
salary of the lowest paid Central Govt employee was Rs.70/- p.m.
·
After
D.A. increase of Rs.5/- to Rs.10/- in 1961, there was no enhancement of D.A. as
there was 10% increase in price-index during last 12 months average.
·
JCM
was formed on 5th October 1963. But differences persisted from the
very beginning.
1.
It
was decided to determine the number of representatives on the basis of
employees, but number of ED employees was not included.
2.
the
Govt was not agreed to form any forum of JCM at Circle level.
3.
a
tough difference was there in the matter of rules for recognition.
Debate on all these issues continued upto
1964 but could not be clinched.
1964
: CCS (Conducts) Rules 1964 was introduced.
Section 4 A and B of previous rules were not there. Different section of this
rules were changed 24 times.
ED Agents (Conduct and Service) Rules 1964
were introduced. It had also been changed thrice.
1966 : Movement on Irreducible Minimum Demands (at
the call of AIPEU Class-III) :
14th to 19th
November 1966 late attendance for 15 minutes and gate demonstration.
2nd
December 1966 hunger fast and sit-in by the office-bearers at all levels.
From 14th
December ’66 work-to-rule.
Achievements : Four-handed offices upgraded to LSG.
Charge allowance
Rs.10/- to TS SPMs.
Post of Manager (HSG) in RLO.
Creation of
Accountant post in Divisional Office.
Fifth post in
Accounts branch be upgraded to LSG etc.
Agitation launched by
AIPEU Postmen & Group-D
From 14th
Nov ’66 == demonstration and performing delivery on foot. Boycotting of
uniform.
From 14th
Dec ’66 == work to rule.
Settlements by negotiation : Hourly-rated overtime to packers on
holidays and working days.
Absentee beat overtime and
cycle allowance to Postmen @Rs.3/- p.m.
On
D.A. Formula :
As
regards to full neutralization of price-rise Second Pay Commission recommended
:
1.
The
Govt should not enter into any agreement on full neutralization of price-rise.
2.
Inflation
provides some facilities to a section of people while deprives another,
specially the salaried group whose earnings looses its real value.
3.
continuous
and high rate price-rise only creates a situation for neutralization.
It
also opined that salary can bear 22.50% erosion continuously for 12 months
while the opinion of the First Pay Commission was 12.50% erosion was
bearable continuously for 6 months.
Staff
side raised the following questions during first part of 1960s:
- whether
neutralization would be made for average price rise in last 6 months or
last one year.
- what
would be the quantum of neutralization --- half or full.
- whether
the increase in DA would be automatic or responsibilities would be given
to an independent third party.
- how
the ED employees would have the neutralization.
No agreement could be
reached and a protest day was observed on 12th August 1964.
27.08.1964 : To decide quantum of DA an
one-man committee was set up with Sri S.K.Das, a retired Judge.
24.10.1964 : A massive demonstration was
organized by all Central Govt employees against Das committee. Com.
S.M.Banerjee raised the issue in Parliament.
Das Committee did not recommend any thing. It
submitted following proposals :
- D.A.
granted to the employees since 1958 as per recommendation of Second CPC
failed to provide justice to the employees.
- In
order to decide the formula for granting D.A., there was need for
examination in details from both the angles of time and points of
price-rise.
- Present
formula needed some change till the price index became stable.
Naturally, the need
of the employees could not be served by Das Committee.
26.07.1966 : A three-man committee was set up
by the Govt to go into the question of D.A. compromising of P.B.Gajendra Gadkar
(Chairman), M.V.Rangachari and Dr. B.N.Ganguli (members).
·
The
terms of reference were as follows:
1.
to
finalise the principles of granting D.A. to C.G. employees and its impact on
State Govts, Undertakings and Semi-Govt employees.
2.
to
find out the alternative of granting D.A. which would have no impact on
inflation.
3.
to
find out change, if any, is required on the system recommended by the Second
CPC.
4.
the
Govt exchequer had to bear the expenses for D.A. for which taxes were
increased. As a result the burden was transferred to the people at large.
Taking such situation in view whether the neutralization of price rise would be
proper or not.
5.
to
consider different reasons of price rise, effect of wage hike over price index
and present position of national economy.
·
The
preliminary report of Gadkar Committee provided :
1.
90%
neutralization in case of lower-paid employees (basic pay Rs.70/- to Rs.109/-).
2.
Govt’s
proposal to reduce quantum of neutralization and to find out alternative for
granting D.A. were rejected.
·
On
19th May 1967 Demand Day was observed.
Main
Recommendations of Gadkar Commission :
1.
The
proposal for D.A. was to be considered on the event of ten-point price rise
during 12 months duration.
2.
D.A.
increase against price rise should not be left for consideration of the Govt.
Increase of D.A. as a result of price rise should be automatic.
3.
Wage
structure should be revised after two years or on 245 point price index
whichever is earlier.
4.
Revision
of D.A. would not be admissible within the pay range between Rs.1000/- to
Rs.2200/-.
·
At
that time the Govt and the capitalists raised the slogan --- Wage freeze.
Profit freeze.
Price freeze.
·
Proposal
for discussion on Gadkar Commission’s report was rejected by the Govt.
Agitation
Became Inevitable
·
3rd
August 1967 --- massive demonstration was organized in front of the residence
of Prime Minister disobeying 144 of CrPC.
·
A
discussion was held on 11th August 1967. Finance Minister Morarji
Desai proposed to keep the amount of D.A. in deposit and take payment
afterwards. Staff side refused that proposal.
·
The
JCA of 1960 was reconstituted. Strike for 24 hours on 11th September
1967 from midnight was decided by JCA.
·
Morarji
Desai announced that wage and D.A. increase would be kept withheld upto March
1968.
·
After
serving strike notice discussions took place and decision was taken that ---
1.
After
discussion in JCM two installments of D.A. was granted and credited to GPF
which could be withdrawn after 31st March 1968.
2.
Next
D.A. would be paid in cash.
3.
Question
of full neutralization would also be negotiated and decided after March 1968.
After such
discussions, strike was withdrawn.
·
But
Govt. failed negotiated settlement on full neutralization. No negotiated
settlement became possible on need-based minimum wage, D.A. formula, merger of
D.A. with pay etc. Even the Govt was not agreeable to refer those issues to
Arbitration.
·
National
Executive committee of Confederation in its meeting held on 21.7.1968 decided
to go on strike.
·
AIRF
and AIDEF jointly decided to go on strike on 12th September 1968.
·
Confederation
organized a convention of Central Govt employees’ organizations. There were
differences on various issues and even in the matter of joint movement of Rly,
Defence and other C.G.employees. Still by way of mutual discussion it was
decided to go on strike on 19th September 1968.
·
Central
Govt again promulgated an ordinance to declare the strike illegal.
·
Govt
issued recognition to 10 All India Unions (including one ED union) and FNPTO
(parallel to NFPTE), SBCO Union and Inspectors’ Association. Except last two
others (FNPTO & its affiliates) had no existence. Rammurthy being the
leader of FNPTO gave a statement in All India Radio opposing the strike calling
it a political one.
·
Still
25 lakhs CG employees participated in 1968 strike.
Penal measures taken
a)
Recognition
of the unions was withdrawn,
b)
12
employees were murdered by Police firing at Pathankot.
c)
12000
were arrested and suspended,
d)
7300
employees faced trial in the court for defiance of ordinance and/or instigation
for defiance.
e)
Termination
notices were served against 50000 temporary employees. In some cases instead of
notice one month’s salary was paid in advance and staff was relieved.
f)
During
resistance movement against penal measures Police opened fire in front of
Cossipore Gun and Shell Factory (in Calcutta) and 5 comrades were killed.
The left organizations
called 72 hours Bundh in West Bengal.
·
Five
Inspectors in West Bengal went on strike on 19th September 1968. All
were suspended. Afterwards four of them surrendered, but Com. Rabindra Lal
Bhattacharya faced Rule-14 charge sheet, reverted to clerical cadre for six
years.
·
Union’s
recognition was restored by court’s verdict. Notices for termination of service
to temporary staffs were also withdrawn by intervention of both political and
organizational levels.
·
The
political situation arisen out of 1967 general election, when Congress was
defeated in 9 states, created some favourable situation towards struggle.
Inner
Struggle Sharpened
1963 : After 6th
Federal Council in 1962 two parallel AIC of P-IV were held in Kashmir which
influenced 7th Federal Council.
1964 : The understanding
between A.S.Rajan and Rammurthy came to an end as A.S.Rajan understood the
anti-struggle approach of Rammurthy. Understanding between K.G.Bose-Rajan was
established in 1964 and continued upto 1978 or so.
1967 : There was strong
difference among the leaders about withdrawal of strike decision. Com.
K.Adinarayana, N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya etc. were against it.
It may be noted that the ideological differences in the
left movement of the country had its influence in trade union field including
employees organizations. There were various class & mass movements at one
side and attempts for class collaboration taking Pt. Nehru (afterwards Indira
Gandhi) as leader of progressive forces within Congress was also on. That had
influence on NFPTE.
1969 : All-out attempts were
made by the Govt, Congress Party and Postal administration towards growing of
FNPTO and its affiliates. But desired result could not be achieved during
consecutive three years. Domination of NFPTE among P&T workers could not be
reduced remarkably.
1971 : New game plan was
chalked out to create differences within NFPTE. Side by side new attacks were
launched in shape of reduction in number of deliveries, withdrawal of stamping
of letters with delivery stamp, withdrawal of orderly to IPOs etc. Com.
O.P.Gupta himself proposed for withdrawal of sorting section and converting
those to transit sections. Progressive leadership had to fight against all
these attempts.
·
Organizational
battle took a new shape. In P-III Jamshedpur AIC, a small group headed by Com.
A.Premnathan and K.L.Moza walked out and formed a committee. Conference elected
a team of leaders headed by K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan.
1972 : In Howrah Conference
of P-IV similar incident took place though there was no walk-out or strong difference
of opinions in the house.
·
Federal
Council in Kolkata faced similar attack. NFPTE was divided into two --- one led
by K.G.-Rajan and another by O.P.Gupta.
·
Confederation
was also divided by convening a meeting by S.Madhusudan during absence of Com.
Vyas. That meeting expelled Com. Vyas and N.J.Iyer and elected Madhusudan as
Secretary General.
·
Govt
recognized the body of the break away groups.
New
setup in labour movement
1970 : Centre of Indian
Trade Unions (CITU) was formed by the progressive forces in the labour movement
owing to undemocratic and class-collaborative line adopted by the AITUC
leaders.
1971 : National Council of
Trade Unions was formed comprising of AITUC, INTUC and H.M.S. at the initiative
of the then labour minister Mr. Khadilkar and direct patronization of Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi.
·
From a largely attended convention in New Delhi at
the initiative of CITU United Council of Trade Unions came into existence.
Besides CITU, HMP, UTUC, TUCC, A.I.Insurance Employees Asscn and NFPTE, headed
by Com. K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan, joined that forum.
·
While
National Council of Trade Unions supported all steps taken by Ms. Indira
Gandhi, United Council of Trade Unions fought against the policy of wage
freeze, amendment of Labour Law and attack on democratic and trade union rights
during national emergency.
·
O.P.Gupta
group openly supported national emergency and 20-point program of National
Congress Party headed by Indira Gandhi.
·
During
emergency it was decided by the Govt to reduce 10% of D.A. and impose ½ % cut
on each installment of D.A. at that time. Com. N.J.Iyer, K.Adinarayana,
S.K.Vyas opposed emergency. Protest movement was launched against D.A cut by
these leaders.
Main difference within the trade unions and
employees organisations was based on the class outlook.
A section thought that Indira Gandhi, who decided to nationalize Banking
service and abolished the privy
purse, was progressive. But those decisions were taken as results of class and mass struggle.
So, the path of struggle was the correct one and not to find favour of the
Ruling Class. That struggle is still
continuing.
1970 : Third Pay Commission
was announced on 23.4.1970, with Raghubir Dayal as Chairman, H.N.Roy as
member-secretary and historian Dr. Nihar Ranjan Roy, Prof A.K.Dasgupta, Dr.
V.R.Pillai as members.
Need-based minimum wage was the
main issue.
·
On
7th October 1970 a separate committee for ED employees was formed
with the retired officer Madan Kishore as Chairman.
·
Interim
Relief of Rs.70/- for regular employees and Rs.35/- for ED employees were
demanded to maintain parity with the undertaken sectors.
·
3rd
Pay Commission granted Rs.15/- at lowest level and Rs.45/- at higher levels as
interim relief. In case of ED employees the amount was Rs.4/- and Rs.8/-
respectively.
This shows the
approach and outlook of the CPC and ED committee. Protest programs were
organized.
1972
: Based on the recommendation of Bonus
Commission set up by Central Govt, demand for bonus for C.G. employees was
raised.
·
According
to Bonus Commission Bonus was not a part of profit. Bonus is a deferred wage.
·
Madhu
Dhandavate placed a bill in the Parliament to that effect.
·
A
Bonus Convention was convened jointly by Confederation and A.I. State Govt
Employees Federation on 10th December 1970 at West Patelnagar, New
Delhi, on the demand ---- ‘Bonus For All’.
·
Rail
and Defence Employees Federations were approached to be the convener of the
convention, but they did not agree. Com. O.P.Gupta also denied.
·
Struggle
for Bonus to Central Govt employees started from that convention and it was
achieved in 1979. At the beginning there was doubt amongst a section of
employees because of the strong opinion expressed by the leaders like O.P.Gupta
and others. But the demand could be settled by way of determined struggle
launched by the progressive leadership.
·
1972 : Madan Kishore
Committee submitted its report in May 1972. In para 15.2 the committee opined: ‘if the working hours of the ED offices were
reduced to two hours one crore rupees would be saved by the Govt per year.’
The approach was quite clear. The
committee further opined: ‘crores of
rupees are spent by the Govt for payment of D.A. and D.A. increase speed up the
price rise.’
The process for granting ad-hoc
increase @5:2 in lieu of D.A. proposed to be discontinued by the committee
though the D.A. was not the subject matter of the committee. Govt accepted the
proposal. But because of de-recognition and disunity NFPTE could not build up
any effective movement. O.P.Gupta was not at all agreeable to any agitation.
On 12th
December 1972 a massive demonstration on ED-demand was held at Board Club
Maidan by the KG-Rajan group. Left MPs raised the ED demands in Parliament.
1973 : 3rd CPC
report was placed in the Parliament on 31st March. According to the
15th International Labour Convention (ILC) norm, minimum pay should
have been Rs.350/- per month. Demand of staff side was Rs.250/- p.m. to have
parity with the undertaking sector.
·
Pay
Commission recommended Rs.185/- p.m. as minimum, though they agreed that
Rs.196/- p.m. should be the minimum wage if the expenses for vegetarian were
taken into account. But they recommended Rs.185/- to reduce the pressure on
Govt exchequer.
·
The
CPC recommended following principle for grant of D.A. :
DA would be
admissible on 8-point price rise in 12 months, pay range upto Rs.350/- at 3.5%
with highest limit of Rs.10/-; pay range above Rs.350/- up to Rs.900/- at 2.5%
with highest limit of Rs.20/-.
Fixing of higher
limit deprived a section of employees from proper neutralization.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions opined that these recommendations were nothing but an
attack on working people at large.
·
No
negotiation could change the recommendations as per demand of the staff side.
So, confrontation became inevitable.
1974
: AIRF convened a convention of all
Central Govt employees organizations on 15th March 1974.
Confederation, both groups of NFPTE, FNPTO joined that convention. But other
organizations linked with INTUC did not join. The convention opined for a joint
strike if the demands were not settled by 10th April 1974.
·
All
the unions of Railway except INTUC formed a joint forum named National
Coordination Committee for Railwaymen’s Struggle (NCCRS).
·
All
India State Govt Employees Federation went on strike on 7th April
1974 in which change of recommendations of 3rd CPC was one of the
demands.
·
Loco
Running Staff Association went on work-to-rule from 15th April 1974.
NCCRS decided to launch continuous strike from 6 A.M., 8th May
1974.
·
S.Madhusudan
brought out a bulletin in the name of Confederation discouraging strike action.
·
NFPTE
headed by KG-Rajan group convened a meeting of all circle secretaries.
O.P.Gupta was also invited there. Guptaji told that he could not allow the
employees to go on strike and beaten by the Govt because of disunity. However,
the meeting decided to go on work-to-rule on 8th & 9th
May and strike from 10th May 1974 on own charter of demands.
·
Railwaymen’s
strike started on 8th May amidst massive attack, torture and arrest.
The water and electric connections to the staff quarters were cut.
·
Strike
of Central Govt employees under the leadership of S.K.Vyas, KG-Rajan could not
continue for more than three days. The class collaborationists came out in an
organized way to break the strike.
O.P.Gupta
managed 20% LSG promotion and launched anti-strike propaganda over phone.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions organized country-wide strike on 15th May
1974 in which Confederation also gave a call to participate.
·
1974
strike brought forward the question of unity as a prime need to safeguard the
interest of the employees. Actually disunity spread out upto the level of
branch level at the initiative of the leaders headed by O.P.Gupta. their target
was to cripple the way of struggle. 1974 strike projected that the
anti-struggle leadership was successful to some extent to weaken the movement.
·
An
ordinance was promulgated to keep 50% of DA increase in deposit and refund the
same afterwards in five installments. Need for resistance movement felt by
everybody.
·
22nd
August 1974 an order of bifurcation of P&T department was issued. But the
same was not implemented for reasons best known to the Govt.
·
Though
unity talk in P&T started in 1972 itself, K.G.Bose from his death-bed wrote
several letters for unity. The approach of KG-Rajan was to establish unity by
holding joint conference and electing leader democratically. O.P.Gupta was in
favour of post sharing as he had no majority in P-IV, RMS-III and NFPTE. The
convention held on 11.12.1972 decided to have democratic election at all
levels.
1975 : On 2nd June
some sorts of unity in P-III became possible. A list of office bearers by way
of post sharing was prepared and submitted. Govt recognized that list on 23rd
September 1975. But recognition to O.P.Gupta’s body in NFPTE was withdrawn for
non-holding of conference.
1976 : Federal Council was
invited from 6th to 8th August 1976 with a view to
establish unity. Because of disunity between O.P.Gupta and K.L.Moza and
Premnathan disunity took a new shape. Two sets of office bearers were claimed
to be elected in that Council.
1977 : Congress Party was
miserably defeated in Parliament election. A coalition Govt was formed at the
center for the first time under the leadership of Janata Party. Left parties
supported that Govt from outside.
1977 : Supreme Court gave
its landmark judgement stating ED employees holder of civil posts.
1978 : In the next assembly
elections Congress party was defeated again. In West Bengal and Kerala Left
parties came to power. Regional parties came to power in various states. Left
parties took a different way of development giving priority to the interests of
downtrodden within the frame wall of capitalist-feudal regime.
·
The
Janata Govt announced withdrawal of 1960, 1968, 1974 disabilities and
punishments awarded to the Govt employees. The Govt withdrew many of the
punishments including dismissals but not all.
·
The
Govt recognized the set of office bearers with D.Gnaniya as Secretary General
of NFPTE. D.Gnaniya decided to resolve the organizational disputes by way of
mutual discussions and arriving at consensus or by way of democratic elections.
In this process overall unity could be restored.
·
A
panel was set up with S.Bhuthalingam as chairman on 11.10.1977 to evolve the
principle for wages and income. The panel proposed minimum wage of Rs.100/-.
But that proposal was not in conformity with the fair wage and price policy of
Janata Party announced in their election manifesto. On the other hand the
lowest wage of ED employees was Rs.85/- for two hours duty. The wage of a Group-D
employee of that time was Rs.92.85 for two hours. Govt could not implement the
proposal because of strong resistance from the unions and supporting left
parties.
·
An
arbitration was constituted with J.S.Bedi as chairman for finalization of
principle for granting D.A. The terms of references were:
1.
First
nine installment of DA merger with pay.
2.
Refund
of DA installments withheld during emergency.
3.
Refund
of the amount of DA withdrawn during emergency.
The Govt did not announce
the report of the arbitration. They tried to settle the merger issue with some
conditionality, but were not ready to settle other issues. So, the differences
between Govt and staff side remain unsettled.
·
During
this period the Communication Minister himself gave birth to Bharatiya P&T
Employees Federation (BPTEF).
1976 : To celebrate silver
jubilee of NFPTE a national convention was convened at Patna where the
leadership comprising of divisional secretary, circle secretary, CHQ and
Federation assembled.
- Discussion
on ED demands was held one day. A 12 point charter of demands was
enumerated. To popularize these demands holding of circle and divisional
conferences was decided.
- Other
problems viz., wage parity with undertaking sector, running scale to
avoid stagnation, bonus and two promotions were discussed and decided to
be pursued in coming days.
- But
the path for achievement of these demands was decided to be negotiated
settlement and practically dropped the way of negotiation backed by
movement.
1979/1980 : Productivity-liked
Bonus was announced ---- employees discriminated.
·
Unabated
price rise, non-settlement of full neutralisation, non-payment of due D.A.
installments, shortage of staff, scanty accommodation, non-restoration of DA to
ED employees, removal of discrimination on bonus and non-settlement of two
promotions etc. were agitating the minds of C.G. employees at large.
·
C.M.Stephen,
the then communication minister, raised a slogan of ‘discipline, skill and
responsibility’. But he was not ready to accept the concept that because of
exploitation deterioration of discipline, skill and responsibility occur.
·
Indira
Gandhi returned to power in midterm poll consequent of Janata Party’s defection
on the debate of dual membership of Janata Party and RSS. Bharatiya Janata
Party was formed at the instances of RSS and they came out from Janata Govt.
·
Confederation
decided some demonstrative movement. NFPTE decided to go on strike in July
1981. Attempts were made to unify three federations in that struggle. Strike
ballot was conducted.
1981 : The Govt promulgated
an ordinance preventing all strike actions. NFPTE leadership decided to conduct
hunger fast program from 12th October and non-cooperation by all.
Com. K.L.Moza informed the Govt that he (P-III) would not join the strike. He
separately gave strike notice to halt withdrawal of savings bank from post
office. But none of the action programs was materialized.
·
The
ordinance was subsequently converted into an act. National Campaign Committee
was formed at the initiative of CITU and excepting INTUC. The committee decided
following action:
1.
17th
August 1981 è
Black Day against the act.
2.
21st
November 1981 à March to Parliament.
3.
19th
January 1982 à
Bharat Bundh.
A section of INTUC (Dara
Group) joined the program.
1982 : The Govt was
propagating since 1980 that staff side should choose anyone of the demands and
the same would be settled. Rest of the demands would be kept pending upto March
1983. Those who were not connected with productivity could not get bonus. A
section of leadership of both NFPTE and Confederation were agreeable to accept
this proposal. But for opposition of the rest of the leaders and the leaders of
AIDEF no agreement was possible.
·
Agitation
started at the joint call of Confederation and AIDEF but it could not create
any pressure on the Govt. Massive attack let loose by the Govt at various
places.
·
4th
CPC was announced on 28th February 1982 in the Parliament. The
proposal for bipartite wage agreement mooted early was practically abandoned.
·
Proposal
for Rs.140/- as interim relief was turned down in connivance with anti-struggle
forces. 4th CPC was constituted with Justice P.N.Mathur as the
chairman, Prof Mathur, M.V.Kakkar, Gopaldas Nag as members and A.K. Majumder as
member-secretary. Induction of employees representative in CPC was not also
accepted.
·
O.P.Gupta
gave consent to refer all the pending demands to CPC. In seventh Federal
Council O.P.Gupta moved a proposal to accept two promotions on matching-savings
which was opposed by N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya, K.Adinarayana, Sadaram
Tanwar, P.N.Mehta etc.
·
In
replying to the debate on need-based minimum wages to the Central Govt
employees the then Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee opined that the employees
may be agitated for need-based minimum wages or for wage parity with
undertaking sector for another hundred years, but Govt would pay which it
could.
·
Despite
disunity in thinking on various aspects amongst the leaders an unified approach
was reflected in the memorandum to 4th CPC. Wage parity was the
central point in the demand to CPC.
·
1983 : Curtailment in number
of deliveries in metro cities was started in Calcutta. A resistance movement
succeeded at initial stage by way of agitation at circle level. But over the
years curtailment of delivery was imposed despite strike action at various
places.
1984 : Ban on recruitment
and creation of posts were imposed for six months from 01.01.1984 and
afterwards that ban continued till date.
·
Non-settlement
of demands of ED employees specially the issue of restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) was agitating the minds of ED employees. NFPTE leadership took little
interest to resolve the issues. Even serious negotiation on 12 point charter of
demands as decided in Patna Convention was also lacking.
·
Considering
the circumstances p-IV CWC decided to launch one-day token strike exclusively
on ED demands viz., interim relief to ED employees, restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) since 01.01.1973 and other proportionate facilities. 19th
September 1984 was the date of strike. P-III CHQ despite having ED membership
did not take any decision to join or lend any support to that strike action.
FNPTO opposed the strike throughout the country.
·
Class-III
circle secretaries in Kerala, West Bengal and Assam decided to join the strike.
The strike was a success. Class-III union at different places joined the
strike.
·
One
ED committee was formed by the Govt with R.R.Savoor, a retired officer of the
department as chairman on 5h November 1984.
·
156
RMS sorting sections were ordered to be closed. It was also decided to close
down SROs. Five installments of DA became due. Govt was delaying its decision
on DA. Of course, one promotion at 16 years of service on matching savings was
introduced. Grant of interim relief was being delayed.
·
The
doors of JCM were closed. Formal meetings with heads of administration were
stooped. So, there was no scope for negotiation.
1985 : RMS & MMS
Class-III unions decided to go on token strike on 6th June 1985. The
strike was a grand success. In this case NFPTE could not give any positive call
for solidarity except to do whatever possible.
·
After
6th June, six RTP staff were not allowed to join in West Bengal.
Both R-III & R-IV started cease work program. No decision was forthcoming
to reinstate the RTP staff. The Chief Minister of West Bengal Com. Jyoti Basu
intervened and got the issue settled. Employees were enthused very much.
·
P&T
department was bifurcated into two from 01.01.1985 by an announcement. Formal
notification was made on 4th June 1985. The reason, as told, was to
modernize the telecom service by its profit, which was so long was utilised to
subsidize the loss of Postal services. Communication Minister announced to
mobilize fund by selling bonds for modernization. Such contradiction existed.
NFPTE did neither want such bifurcation, nor protested against such action.
O.P.Gupta was the Secretary General at that time. In a press release he
mentioned the possibilities of corporatisation and privatization. But the
proposal was not opposed.
·
Efforts towards bifurcation of Federation :
In April 1985 a
debate took place in P-III CWC about bifurcation of Federation. Three comrades
opposed the proposal. An argument was raised that the Postal leaders of NFPTE
may not be accepted by the Telecom authorities and likewise the Postal
authorities may not accept the leaders belonging to Telecom to discuss the
problems.
·
On
9th December 1985 Department of Personnel instructed NFPTE to
constitute two Federations according to departmental set up.
·
A
section of leaders were of the opinion that Postal wing can move towards
achievement of their demands by way of struggle, though they were against
bifurcation.
·
18th
Federal Council of NFPTE was held in Calcutta from 17th to 19th
March 1985 at Oswal Bhavan. After discussion two Federations, viz., National
Federation of Telecom Employees (NFTE) and National Federation of Postal
Employees (NFPE) were constituted. It was also decided that NFPTE would also
remain. A body was also selected, but to no effect. Though most of the
delegates wanted Com. Adi as Secretary General but for the sake of unity Com.
K.L.Moza was accepted as Secretary General.
·
1986
: The Outlook of 4th CPC
:
‘In regard to payment of
wages how much the employer can pay is the main feature and that aspect has been
carefully considered.’ (Para 7.67)
As
regards wage parity the CPC opined that during 1970-71 and 1984-85, 344% wage
increase took place in
undertaking sector. It would not be wise to thrust upon so much burden on the
Govt. (Para 5.12) 4th CPC recommended 20% wage
increase at lowest level and Rs.900/- at highest level. It, however, recommended a concrete D.A.
formula of granting DA at the interval of six months (at the end of June and December) on 12 monthly
average increases in price index.
Main Thrust of Savoor Committee :
The committee proposed to abolish ED Nightguard, ED Chowkidar, Sweeper,
Safaiwala, Farash etc. and to entrust
the job to contingent-paid employees. Abolition of the posts of orderly to Inspectors
and mail overseers were also
proposed. Another proposal was to close down EDBOs, which were unremunerative and to introduce
Licensed Agency services at the cost of Rs.50/- each. In short, the committee proposed cheaper postal
system.
The positive side of the report was to introduce allowances
proportionate to regular employees.
The Govt accepted most of the recommendations of Savoor Committee and a
large number of contingent-paid employees
were engaged in pace of ED employees. It was ensured by the Unions/Federation that none of the ED
employees was retrenched. Contingent-paid employees would be engaged only in vacant posts.
JOURNEY OF
NFPE
NFPE has crossed 27 years of its journey. During this period NFPE has
built up joint movement of Postal
Workers, strengthened the movement led by Confederation and linked the Postal
movement to main stream of
struggle.
1987 : A call of seven days’
strike could be given by NFPE, FNPO and BPEF. For the first time problem of
postal services were included in the charter.
Though the strike did not take place, an agreement was reached by the
department and the Federations at the instances of Chief Central Labour
Commissioner.
1989 : Govt did not
implement most of the items of the agreement. As a result NFPE decided to
organize strike action. But other Federations did not agree. NFPE went alone to
conduct token strike in 1989.
·
A
nationwide strike was organized by left trade unions against the misrule of
Rajiv Gandhi to
have an alternative. NFPE / Confederation could not give a concrete call.
Advice was given to do whatever possible in support of strike.
·
Requirement
of struggle at departmental level and against the policy of the Govt. was
there. But NFPE leadership, specially Com. Moza tried to limit the
organizational efforts to settle the fringe benefit related issues but was not
in a mood to oppose the postal policy which was against the interest of the
service as well as of the employees.
1991
: Second promotion on matching
savings was achieved.
1992 : In third Federal
Council at Dharwar the progressive leadership headed by N.J.Iyer and
K.Adinarayana was established. Not only that, the Council decided to join the main stream of struggle as a policy. Since then postal
employees became an integral part of
national mass movement. Such stand influenced Confederation which also
became part of national movement.
1993 : An united strike struggle became possible for four days by three Federations, All India
Postal Accounts Staff Association and Association of IPOs & IRMs. A strike
call was given by that joint forum. Such unity did not last for a considerable
period, although Postal Accounts Employees Association became the partner of
NFPE.
·
NFPE
launched strike struggle in 1996, 1998 and 2000 for 6 days, 8 days and 14 days
respectively. In 1996 bonus ceiling was enhanced. In 1998 scale of allowance
with increment, leave with allowances and some other financial demands of ED
and regular employees were settled. But in 2000 such notable achievement was
not there.
These strike struggles
brought two major questions forward, viz., whether extra-militancy was being
exhibited by NFPE and strike should be organized to achieve something.
During these periods
of struggles membership of NFPE increased in various parts of the country but in weaker states
employees got a belief that NFPE and FNPO are the struggling organisations. The differences
between two Federations could not be established by the leaders exhibiting their fighting spirit and sacrifice.
·
Inner
contradiction within NFPE leadership was also there. After Dharwar K.L.Moza was
replaced by R.A.P.Singh in P-III with a view to strengthen NFPE. Later
R.A.P.Singh (popularly known as Masterji) became critical of NFPE
leadership after 1998 strike though he was taken into confidence by the
leaders.
·
Introduction
of CCS(RSA) Rules 1993 and 1995 was fought together. But there were some soft
corners to check-off system on the part of a section of leadership because of
the fact that amount of collection of subscription would be more and that too
without devoting any labour.
·
After
introduction of New Recognition Rules formation of ED Union at various levels
could be possible without much difference. All India leadership was also chosen
by a consensus amongst the leaders. Change over of leadership to serving
employees was also based on consensus.
2002 : Complications arose
after release of recognition rules for the Federations. Federal Council held in
October 2002 in Kolkata exhibited a sharp difference. There were certain
impacts of last ED All India Conference held at Tamilnadu where money power and
muscle power were exhibited. Attempts were made to combine R-IV,GDS union and
major chunk of P-III against NFPE leadership. But due to the role played by the
President and G.S. of P-III, functional unity of NFPE could be preserved.
·
The
main issue for consideration before the progressive forces was how to establish pro-NFPE leadership in GDS Union and also in
P-III afterwards. In Jwalamukhi AIC of P-III the team headed by M.Krishnan and
K.V.Sridharan took over and tried to streamline the organisation to strengthen
NFPE and to fulfill the requirement of struggle.
·
After
fifth CPC and Geethakrishnan Commission’s recommendation the Govt took their
efforts to outsource and curtailed the postal services with view to
privatization. Various programs including strike action were launched and
compelled the Govt not to reduce the postal service by introducing licensed
agency, Panchayet Sanchar Seva Yojana, closure of single and double-handed post
offices and lastly closure of 9797 post offices. These were the great
achievements during the regime of Neo-liberal economy.
2008 onwards : General
Secretary of sole recognized GDS Union failed to maintain unity of postal
movement being the part of NFPE. His call for fragmented strike from 18th
December 2008 jeopardised the attempt of joint movement and placed the
settlement of GDS demands in back foot. It became impossible to continue with
him in the interest of GDS employees and joint movement as well. Under this
compelling situation NFPE had to organize the GDS Union separately and fight. Inner
struggle in the organisation should not stop ---- this is the heritage of NFPE.
.
NOTES ON HISTORY OF
P&T MOVEMENT
Com. Shibsankar Roy, West Bengal, Ex. Assistant General
Secretary AIPEU Gr.-C
Towards formation of Union
1904
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee submitted first memorandum on problems of
employees in Kolkata GPO. The memorandum was signed by the employees, who on
being asked by the Presidency Postmaster withdrew their signature. Babu
Tarapada boldly faced the queries of the PPM. Some of the problems were
redressed.
1905
: Postal Club was established in Bombay (presently Mumbai).
1906
: i) A meeting was held to form an organization in Kolkata at the
initiative of Babu Tarapada. But no decision could be made for the fear of the
employees.
ii) In the second meeting also no
decision could be taken.
iii) Indian Telegraph Association was
formed at the initiative of Henry Barton. This was the first Govt recognized
organization.
1907
: i) Second memorandum was prepared and submitted by Babu Tarapada. This
time most of the employees signed the memorandum.
ii) A demand was placed before the authorities to get permission for
formation of Postal Club.
1908
: i) The Telegraphists went on continuous strike at the call of Indian
Telegraph Association.
ii) Babu Tarapada Mukherjee called
upon the Postal Signallers not to perform the job of Telegraphists during
strike. The Postmaster General threatened Babu Tarapada, who was transferred to
Purnea at once. But the incident created positive impact. Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee handed over charge as SPM, Entally. He acquired a rented house at
162, Bowbazar Street and established the Calcutta Postal Club in first part of
May 1908 and left for Purnea. This club acted as union till 1920.
iii) Postmen in Kolkata went on strike
for wage revision owing to price-rise.
iv) Organisation was grown in various
places ---
Postal League was formed in
Dhacca at the initiative of Babu Sarat Chandra Sen, organisation was built up
in Bombay, Ahmedabad, Satara, Kanpur, Lahore, Lucknow, Madras and other places.
1913
: Third memorandum was prepared and submitted on the demands of Postal and
RMS workers like wage revision, time test and others.
1918
: Postmen of Bombay went on strike which continued for 145 days. The
striking employees sought for advice from V.G.Dalvi, who advised to form a
union. This was the first step towards formation of Postmen and Lower Grade
Staff Union.
1919
: Dada Ghosh (Bhupendranath Ghosh) entered into service. India Rules 1919
was introduced. In it’s Section 96(B) conduct rules of Govt. employees were
incorporated.
0
1920 : i) Postal Inquiry
Committee was formed by the Govt to examine the service conditions of Postal
Workers.
ii) The leaders of Postal Workers
from various parts of the country came over to Simla to give witness to Postal
Inquiry Committee. They met and discussed on formation of All India
Organisation. Babu Tarapada drafted the constitution in consultation with all
the leaders present. Leaders agreed to form All India Union by holding
conference. The draft constitution was sent to various states to get it
discussed and adopted.
All India Post Office and RMS
Union was formed in the All India Conference held in Delhi from 24th
September 1920 to 26th September 1920.
1921
: i) All India Conference was held at Lahore. Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
elected as President of that A.I.C. At that time, wife of Babu Tarapada
Mukherjee was in death-bed. He was in dilemma about what to do. But Sulakshna
Debi encouraged her husband so that he could attend the AIC and fulfill the
expectation of the Postal and RMS workers.
Babu Tarapada not only attended the
conference but also delivered a historic presidential speech exposing the
deplorable condition of Postal workers and criticizing the British govt for
which he was charge sheeted.
The
defence statement submitted by Babu Tarapada is also a historic document. An
offer was given to him to apologize, but he refused boldly. He told that what
he had stated in his speech was the living experience of the Postal workers.
Babu Tarapada Mukherjee was
served with order of termination on 20th November 1921 and his wife
expired on 29.11.1921. Two serious attacks came to his life at a time.
ii)
The Calcutta Postal Club immediately decided to raise fund for livelihood of
Babu Tarapada by the way of enhancing the rate of monthly subscription.
iii) All India Post Office and RMS Union
Bengal Circle, in their Circle Council meeting decided to compensate the salary
of Babu Tarapada as paid while in service.
iv) Contributions also came from Burma and
from Madras Circle.
1922
: i) In the All India Conference Babu Tarapada was elected as General
Secretary of the Union defying the Recognition Rules which provided that no
punished employee could be elected as office bearer of the union. Still the delegates
courageously elected a retrenched employee as their leader.
ii) As Central Union would take the
responsibility to disburse the salary of the G.S., Babu Tarapada purchased a
small building at 12, Chhaku Khansama Lane in Kolkata and started functioning
of the Central Union from there. Such arrangement continued till 1927, when the
Central Union was shifted to New Delhi.
1929
: Babu Tarapada Mukherjee expired on 20th September at 3-45 P.M.
in the Central Union office.
Achievements
of Babu Tarapada
- The
strength of the union was consolidated.
- Re-instatement
of retrenched employees.
- Change
in the time test.
- Introduction
of time scale.
Dada Ghosh came
forward as a leading functionary of the union.
The leaders of the Calcutta Postal
Club decided to erect a building in the memory of Babu Tarapada utilizing the
fund accumulated in their hand from the subscription raised by them and
donations sent by Burma and Madras comrades. Foundation stone was laid in 1930
at 37 Ganesh Chandra Avenue owned by the Calcutta Postal Club. Postal and RMS
unions are still now functioning from that building.
1929
: i) Great depression started in capitalist economy. British Govt
constituted a committee --- ‘Committee on Retrenchment’ popularly known as
Zahangir Committee.
The Zahangir Committee
proposed :
- To
stop recruitment.
- To
reduce the working strength.
- To
reduce the wages by 10 percent.
- To
augment ED post parallel to each regular cadre in Postal Dept.
ii) Trade Dispute Act
was modified to curb the people’s agitation.
1931 : i) Emergency Reduction Rules
1931 was introduced to reduce the number of employees.
ii) Dada Ghosh proposed to launch
work-to-rule to face the attack.
1932 : Recognition of All India Post
Office and RMS Union was withdrawn.
1934 : Wage cut was introduced. Govt
saved Rs. 2 Crore 75 lakhs. Pasricha Postal Inquiry Committee was constituted
by the Govt. After implementation of its report, disparity increased.
1935 : Section 96(B) of India Rules 1919 was amended to curb the
trade Union activity of Govt. employees.
1936
: Strike was launched.
1937
: Stay-in demonstration was treated as absence and pay cut was imposed by
amending Payment of Wages Act.
1939
: i) Demand for D.A. as a separate component of salary was raised. During
thirties posts of 18 categories namely, ED Sub-Postmaster, ED sorter, ED
packer, ED Farash, ED Chowkidar, ED Nightguard, ED Mali, ED Mail Carrier, ED
Messenger etc. were introduced to reduce the cost of Postal Dept.
ii) It was necessary to launch
struggle to resist these onslaughts. Instead of unity disunity took place.
Following new unions were formed :
§ Town Inspector and
Inspector Association.
§ PMG Office Staff
Union.
§ Muslim Postal and RMS
Union.
Prior to that the following
unions existed :
§ Indian Telegraph
Association.
§ All India Telegraph
Union.
§ All India Postmen and
Lower Grade Staff Union.
§ All India Post Office
and RMS Union.
Dada Ghosh came in the leadership of Bengal Circle after the demise of
Babu Tarapada..
iii) During Second World War
various parts of Bengal, Assam, Burma and coastal part of Orissa were badly
affected by bombing of Japanese forces. People at large evacuated. Postal
workers were also evacuating.
iv) Dada Ghosh gave a call to stay
at work place and serve the people. He was thinking to visit the affected areas
and meet the workers for their moral boost up. He was in a dilemma because his
wife was seriously ill. His younger son was also ill.
v) Ultimately he took leave and
went on tour. His presence in the affected areas enthused the P&T workers.
But when he returned home he saw that his wife died in his absence. Few days
later his younger son also expired. Dada Ghosh was so moved with grief and
sorrow that he resigned from the post of union. But after 2/3 days he withdrew
his resignation at the request of his followers.
1942
: Director General on 18th December called a round table
conference where union representatives raised the demand to grant D.A. as a
separate element of salary. Unanimity was developed on granting Rs.5/- as D.A.
on 20 point price-rise. During World War there was unprecedented price-rise. The
situation brought various unions nearer.
Secretary of State’s (Conduct) Rules
1942 were promulgated. Section 4 A and B provided retrenchment of employees for
staging demonstration. So many postal comrades were punished by this rules and
also protested against by unions.
1943
: The Govt declared P&T, Railway and some other departments as
essential and militarise those departments. Most of the P&T workers joined
Defence of India Army to have free uniform, Ration Allowance and Military
Compensatory Allowance with a view to have some relief for their livelihood.
1944
: In All India Conference of All India Post Office and RMS Union it was
reviewed that price index had raised to 320 points in comparison to pre-war
period. Demand for wage increase was raised.
1946
: i) There was continuous attempt to unite all the unions. On the 24th
January 1946, Federation of Postal and Telegraph Union was formed under the
leadership of Dewan Chamanlal. All India Postmen and Lower Grade Staff Union
did not join the Federation.
ii) All India Postmen and Lower
Grade Staff Union and Federation jointly served strike notice on 24th
February 1946.
iii) Govt set up adjudication headed
by a High Court Judge Rajadhaksya. That adjudicator recommended Rs.5/- to
Rs.15/- for non-gazetted staff.
iv) Federation at this stage
withdrew the strike notice.
v) On 10th May 1946 Govt
set up first Pay Commission headed by a judge of Federal Court Srinibas
Baradachariya. Thus there were two commissions on wage review at a time. This
created much confusion.
vi) The decision to wear Hungry
Badge was withdrawn by Federation. That program was implemented by All
India Post Office and RMS Union in Bengal, Assam and in some parts of Bihar.
vii) Because of differences amongst
the unions no unified approach could be possible in the matter of pay revision
to First Pay Commission.
26.06.1946
: All India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union issued strike notice on 12
point demands to go on strike from 11th July 1946 midnight.
- Dewan
Chamanlal opposed the strike on behalf of Federation.
- General
Secretary of All India Telegraph Association Dr. Narona also opposed the
strike.
- The
strike was also opposed by M.A.Jabbar, General Secretary of Indian Posts
and Telegraph Association.
- Their
plea was that some issues had been under examination by adjudication and
as much the strike is unjustified.
11.07.1946
: Strike commenced at midnight. In Bombay, Assam, Bengal and Madras Postmen
strike was total. In Assam authorities directed the postmen, who are members of
All India Post Office and RMS Union and did not participate in strike, to work
in places of striking ones. The postmen as per direction of Dada Ghosh refused
to move. Some of them were suspended. So, question came before A.I. Post Office
& RMS Union how to cope up with the situation. In Calcutta, all the unions
met together and decided to join the strike. Entire Bengal Circle joined the
strike from 21st July with 3 days notice.
§ The entire telegraph
workers joined the strike under the leadership of K.G.Bose defying their all
India leadership. Comrades of Calcutta Telephones joined the strike defying the
direction of Indian Post and Telegraph Association.
§ A.I.T.U.C., the only
trade union at that time called upon the labours to go on strike as solidarity
in Bombai and Madras.
29.07.1946
: A.I.T.U.C. in Bengal and Assam gave call for Hartaal and the normal
life in both the states were totally stopped. The role played by the working
class raised this strike at a level of anti-imperialist movement.
§ At the intervention
of National leaders negotiation took place and after settlement of demands the
strike was called off on 3rd August.
§ But for Bengal circle
a separate discussion took place and the strike in Bengal Circle was called off
on 6th August.
§ Main achievements
were :
1.
Pay
structure revision.
2.
Pension
for lower grade employees.
3.
Departmental
promotion.
4.
Good
conduct pay @Rs.5/- for all non-gazetted staff including EDAs.
Lesson of the strike :
·
Necessity
for united organisation was felt.
·
Need
to join the main stream movement was felt. All India Postmen & Lower Grade
Staff Union and All India Post Office & RMS Union took affiliation of
A.I.T.U.C. in February 1947.
·
P&T
workers participated in a joint movement against their employer on common cause
which led them to form one union in one industry afterwards.
1947
: To have a unified organisation leadership held continuous dialogue from 2nd July to 5th
July 1947. constitution was drafted,
name of the unified organisation was finalized.
·
On
12th August 1947 separate conferences of all the unions were held in
New Delhi and thereafter in a joint conference ‘Union of Posts and Telegraph
Workers’ (UPTW) was formed.
·
All
India Postmen & Lower Grade Staff Union though joined that initiative from
very beginning could not join UPTW as because their All India conference
rejected the proposal.
1948 : A proposal for re-alignment of P&T union was prepared by
the Govt and a conference of various unions were held where 14 unions joined
the discussion. But no decision could be taken.
·
At
that time UPTW was enrolling membership, collecting subscription and getting
prepared for strike ballot. So, most of the leaders thought that the move of
the Govt is for diluting the steps of UPTW. So, they opposed the steps.
·
The
First Pay Commission failed to meet the requirement of the employees especially
in regard to pay scale and policy for granting D.A. etc. DA increase was suggested
on rise of 20 points in the price index, but they authorized the Govt to decide
the quantum of D.A., i.e., quantum of D.A. would depend on the mercy of the
Govt.
1949 : After independence
there was no change in price-rise. National leaders did not take any action
against black-marketeers, hoarders as promised. The assurances given by them to
P&T workers to resolve the problems after independence were also thrown
into dustbin. Employees had no other alternative than to resort to strike. The
Federal Council of UPTW decided to go on to strike. When preparation of that
strike was going on some leaders gave a requisition for meeting to reconsider
the strike decision. That meeting was convened at Madras.
·
The
leaders reaching Madras were arrested by Police. Some were arrested during
their journey also. More than hundred top-ranking leaders were arrested. Afterwards
their services were terminated. Some of them were brought back to service on
appeal or court orders. K.G.Bose, though
won the court case, was not allowed to join by the Telegraph authorities.
1952 : To organize one
union in one industry came up for discussion again. The proposal of the Govt
was discussed upto divisional level. Overall unanimity was reached among
leaders and their rank and file.
1954 : Ultimately on 24th November 1954, National
Federation of Post and Telegraph Employees (NFPTE) with its nine affiliated
unions were formed.
1955 : Agitation on the
demand of Festival Advance was organized in Calcutta. On 19th
October 1955 a mass deputation was organized at PMG’s office. The demand was
acceded to by the PMG. But one of the leaders of that agitation Comrade
Sarojmohan Chatterjee was retrenched from service.
·
Demand
for formation of 2nd Pay Commission was raised in the Parliament by
the MPs of various Parties.
·
Federal
Executive also raised same demand.
·
CCS
(Conducts) Rules 1955 was introduced. Section 4 A and B of previous rules
continued.
1956 : Confederation of
Central Govt Employees and Workers was constituted. Attempt was made to organize all central govt employees under
one federation/confederation but failed.
1957 : 15th Labour Conference
(tripartite) decided the norms for need-based minimum wage.
·
Demand
for the 2nd CPC was again raised in the Parliament on 17.5.1957,
that day a strong demonstration of 10,000 CG employees were staged in New Delhi
on the 2nd CPC.
·
Strike
notice was served on 21.5.1957 to launch continuous strike from 8th
August 1957.
·
Formation
of 2nd CPC was announced in the Parliament on 3rd August
1957. Sri Jagannath Das was the chairman.
·
A
separate committee (Rajan Committee) to examine the service condition of the ED
employees was formed on 5th September 1957.
1958 : Rajan Committee submitted its
report on 1st September. The report exposed :
i) historical background of
ED system.
ii) service condition (total
insecurity) at that time.
iii) wage policy so long
followed, no compensation for price rise.
Committee recommended:
i) revision of wages based on point
system, i.e., on quantum of work.
ii) adhoc increase in lieu of
D.A.
iii) promotion to regular posts
through examination.
iv) adoption of service rules
(ED Agent Conduct & Service Rules).
Above recommendations
were accepted by the Govt.
Recommendations not accepted:
i) departmentalisation of ED
employees in phased manner.
ii) house rent for office room.
iii) other facilities proportionate to regular employees like leave,
uniform etc.
1959 : Report of 2nd CPC was placed in the winter session of
Parliament. The report did not recommend:
ð
Need-based
minimum wage; so aspirations of the employees did not fulfill.
ð
On
DA issue the CPC proposed DA increase on 10-point rise in price index in one
year, but the quantum of DA would be decided by the Govt.
It proposed to increase the
working hours on Saturday and denied full trade union right.
Protest demonstration was staged
on 22nd December 1959.
All India Railwaymens Federation,
All India Defence Employees Federation and Confederation of Central Govt
Employees and Workers called continuous strike from the midnight of 11th
July 1960.
1960 : Efforts were made by
the organizations for negotiation. Some discussions were held with some
ministries at the intervention of some M.P.s but failed. Attempts were made to
meet the Prime Minister, who refused to meet. Strike became unavoidable.
·
Ordinance
was promulgated on 8th July 1960 evening declaring the strike
illegal. That ordinance provided arrest without warrant, jail for 6 months and
a fine of Rs.200/- in case of violation of ordinance. In case of instigation
jail for one year and fine of Rs.2000/- was prescribed.
·
Recognition
of 85 unions and Federations was withdrawn. Police started harassing the
employees before the strike took place.
·
Barring
Congress and Janasangha all the political parties supported the strike. AITUC,
Hind Majdoor Sabha (HMS), State Govt Employees Organisations supported the
strike.
·
Slanderous
campaign moved on in All India Radio after the provocating speech given by the
Prime Minister himself.
STRIKE
COMMENCED
:
·
That
was the first joint action of all Central Govt Employees against the stand
taken by their employer.
·
There
was no all-out strike. Strike in Bombay, Nagpur, Kolkata, Bangalore was almost
total.
·
On
13th & 14th, participation in P&T increased but
that in Railways decreased.
·
On
14th, Hartaal was organized at various places at the
initiative of AITUC & HMS.
·
JCA
decided to withdraw the strike on 16th and called upon all the
employees to join on 17th July 1960.
·
The
first ever joint action of Central Govt Employees was brutally attacked by the
Central Govt.
·
80% of P&T
workers went on strike. The Central Govt admitted that 17.6 lakh man-days were
lost and the Govt had to suffer a loss of 2 crores of Rupees.
·
While
the Congress leaders and their family members came out as volunteers to break
the strike the Communist Party mobilized in favour of strike.
1960
: Penal measures taken :
·
5
Railway employees were shot dead at Chahod. Another 9 were killed at Police
firing at various places. Total 17780 employees were arrested. Total suspension
was 27098 including the arrested. 6000 temporary employees were retrenched
straightway. Another 6000 were dismissed on being jailed. Penal measures
against 45945 employees were taken.
·
Lists
of suspended and dismissed officials were displayed at the office gate and they
were not allowed to enter the office. Those who ere allowed to join had to sign
an undertaking that he did wrong in joining the strike and would never
participate in any strike in future.
·
Public
opinion could be mobilized by the Communist Party of India by organizing mass
campaign throughout the country against such massive penalization and
ultimately the Govt had to consider the appeals and petitions and reduced the
larger section of penal measures.
1960
: After The Strike :
·
JCA
met on 28,29 & 30th July 1960 and decided seven joint tasks ---
i) get the arrested
employees released.
ii) halt the
processes of departmental proceedings.
iii) halt the fresh
processes of departmental proceedings.
iv) to reduce the
jail terms.
v) reinstatement of
dismissed employees.
vi) to stop the
punishments of territorial army.
vii) restoration of
union’s recognitions.
·
Steps
were also taken to consolidate the strength and unity amongst workers. But it
was hardly possible because of administrative atrocities.
·
The
stand taken by the Central JCA to launch work-to-rule was withdrawn
unilaterally by them without consulting the state-level leaders. This stand did
harm to the organisation, especially to face the victimizations.
·
The
strike brought the necessity for a machinery to resolve the labour dispute.
1961 : Recognition was
restored by a court verdict. But it took more time to restore normal
functioning.
·
The
ordinance (Essential Services Maintenance Ordinance) promulgated by the Central
Govt before the strike was enacted subsequently. A bill was also prepared,
namely, Industrial Relations Bill in which Joint Consultative Machinery was
provided. That bill also provided some provisions for recognition of unions and
associations :
a) the organisation should
have support of at least 15 % of employees /workers.
b) in order to participate
in JCM support of 35% would be required.
c) no outsider could hold
any post of the union.
d) membership verification
would be conducted at par with labour unions.
1962 : In 6th
Federal Council of NFPTE the contradiction between two lines came in the
forefront, viz,
Resolution moved by
K.Rammurthy proposed the way of negotiation to achieve the demands while that
moved by R.P.Chatterjee proposed the way of struggle and agitation. Such
differences influenced the organisation for years to come and still that
difference is there in the organisation covertly.
·
Another
difference also came out in that resolution. Rammurthy proposed that Chinese
Army attacked India in the border where as R.P.Chatterjee explained the event
as border dispute and to be settled through negotiations.
·
Despite
those debates P&T workers donated Rs.45,000/- to Defence of India Fund.
1962 : National Emergency
was declared during India-China border dispute. It was decided in a meeting
between the Home Minister and Central Govt Employees that they would deposit a
portion of their earnings in the
following way :
1.
1%
of income in compulsory deposit scheme.
2.
1%
of income in savings certificate or Defence Bond.
1963 : In the Union Budget for the year 1963-64 it was
enacted that the employees who were not in the purview of income tax will have
to save money in the following manner :
Provident Fund è 6%
Compulsory Deposit
Scheme è 1%
Savings Certificate è 1%
According to new act è 3% } Total 11% per month
Protest demonstration
was launched on 8th August 1963 at the call of Confederation.
·
Condition
of the Central Govt employees were dismal, because wholesale price-index
increased by 6.4% in 1962-63 in comparison to 1952-53. Expenditure for
livelihood increased by 40% during that period.
·
A
review carried out by The Times of India went to show that monthly requirement
of lower-middle class family required Rs.115/- to Rs.140/- per month. But
salary of the lowest paid Central Govt employee was Rs.70/- p.m.
·
After
D.A. increase of Rs.5/- to Rs.10/- in 1961, there was no enhancement of D.A. as
there was 10% increase in price-index during last 12 months average.
·
JCM
was formed on 5th October 1963. But differences persisted from the
very beginning.
1.
It
was decided to determine the number of representatives on the basis of
employees, but number of ED employees was not included.
2.
the
Govt was not agreed to form any forum of JCM at Circle level.
3.
a
tough difference was there in the matter of rules for recognition.
Debate on all these issues continued upto
1964 but could not be clinched.
1964
: CCS (Conducts) Rules 1964 was introduced.
Section 4 A and B of previous rules were not there. Different section of this
rules were changed 24 times.
ED Agents (Conduct and Service) Rules 1964
were introduced. It had also been changed thrice.
1966 : Movement on Irreducible Minimum Demands (at
the call of AIPEU Class-III) :
14th to 19th
November 1966 late attendance for 15 minutes and gate demonstration.
2nd
December 1966 hunger fast and sit-in by the office-bearers at all levels.
From 14th
December ’66 work-to-rule.
Achievements : Four-handed offices upgraded to LSG.
Charge allowance
Rs.10/- to TS SPMs.
Post of Manager (HSG) in RLO.
Creation of
Accountant post in Divisional Office.
Fifth post in
Accounts branch be upgraded to LSG etc.
Agitation launched by
AIPEU Postmen & Group-D
From 14th
Nov ’66 == demonstration and performing delivery on foot. Boycotting of
uniform.
From 14th
Dec ’66 == work to rule.
Settlements by negotiation : Hourly-rated overtime to packers on
holidays and working days.
Absentee beat overtime and
cycle allowance to Postmen @Rs.3/- p.m.
On
D.A. Formula :
As
regards to full neutralization of price-rise Second Pay Commission recommended
:
1.
The
Govt should not enter into any agreement on full neutralization of price-rise.
2.
Inflation
provides some facilities to a section of people while deprives another,
specially the salaried group whose earnings looses its real value.
3.
continuous
and high rate price-rise only creates a situation for neutralization.
It
also opined that salary can bear 22.50% erosion continuously for 12 months
while the opinion of the First Pay Commission was 12.50% erosion was
bearable continuously for 6 months.
Staff
side raised the following questions during first part of 1960s:
- whether
neutralization would be made for average price rise in last 6 months or
last one year.
- what
would be the quantum of neutralization --- half or full.
- whether
the increase in DA would be automatic or responsibilities would be given
to an independent third party.
- how
the ED employees would have the neutralization.
No agreement could be
reached and a protest day was observed on 12th August 1964.
27.08.1964 : To decide quantum of DA an
one-man committee was set up with Sri S.K.Das, a retired Judge.
24.10.1964 : A massive demonstration was
organized by all Central Govt employees against Das committee. Com.
S.M.Banerjee raised the issue in Parliament.
Das Committee did not recommend any thing. It
submitted following proposals :
- D.A.
granted to the employees since 1958 as per recommendation of Second CPC
failed to provide justice to the employees.
- In
order to decide the formula for granting D.A., there was need for
examination in details from both the angles of time and points of
price-rise.
- Present
formula needed some change till the price index became stable.
Naturally, the need
of the employees could not be served by Das Committee.
26.07.1966 : A three-man committee was set up
by the Govt to go into the question of D.A. compromising of P.B.Gajendra Gadkar
(Chairman), M.V.Rangachari and Dr. B.N.Ganguli (members).
·
The
terms of reference were as follows:
1.
to
finalise the principles of granting D.A. to C.G. employees and its impact on
State Govts, Undertakings and Semi-Govt employees.
2.
to
find out the alternative of granting D.A. which would have no impact on
inflation.
3.
to
find out change, if any, is required on the system recommended by the Second
CPC.
4.
the
Govt exchequer had to bear the expenses for D.A. for which taxes were
increased. As a result the burden was transferred to the people at large.
Taking such situation in view whether the neutralization of price rise would be
proper or not.
5.
to
consider different reasons of price rise, effect of wage hike over price index
and present position of national economy.
·
The
preliminary report of Gadkar Committee provided :
1.
90%
neutralization in case of lower-paid employees (basic pay Rs.70/- to Rs.109/-).
2.
Govt’s
proposal to reduce quantum of neutralization and to find out alternative for
granting D.A. were rejected.
·
On
19th May 1967 Demand Day was observed.
Main
Recommendations of Gadkar Commission :
1.
The
proposal for D.A. was to be considered on the event of ten-point price rise
during 12 months duration.
2.
D.A.
increase against price rise should not be left for consideration of the Govt.
Increase of D.A. as a result of price rise should be automatic.
3.
Wage
structure should be revised after two years or on 245 point price index
whichever is earlier.
4.
Revision
of D.A. would not be admissible within the pay range between Rs.1000/- to
Rs.2200/-.
·
At
that time the Govt and the capitalists raised the slogan --- Wage freeze.
Profit freeze.
Price freeze.
·
Proposal
for discussion on Gadkar Commission’s report was rejected by the Govt.
Agitation
Became Inevitable
·
3rd
August 1967 --- massive demonstration was organized in front of the residence
of Prime Minister disobeying 144 of CrPC.
·
A
discussion was held on 11th August 1967. Finance Minister Morarji
Desai proposed to keep the amount of D.A. in deposit and take payment
afterwards. Staff side refused that proposal.
·
The
JCA of 1960 was reconstituted. Strike for 24 hours on 11th September
1967 from midnight was decided by JCA.
·
Morarji
Desai announced that wage and D.A. increase would be kept withheld upto March
1968.
·
After
serving strike notice discussions took place and decision was taken that ---
1.
After
discussion in JCM two installments of D.A. was granted and credited to GPF
which could be withdrawn after 31st March 1968.
2.
Next
D.A. would be paid in cash.
3.
Question
of full neutralization would also be negotiated and decided after March 1968.
After such
discussions, strike was withdrawn.
·
But
Govt. failed negotiated settlement on full neutralization. No negotiated
settlement became possible on need-based minimum wage, D.A. formula, merger of
D.A. with pay etc. Even the Govt was not agreeable to refer those issues to
Arbitration.
·
National
Executive committee of Confederation in its meeting held on 21.7.1968 decided
to go on strike.
·
AIRF
and AIDEF jointly decided to go on strike on 12th September 1968.
·
Confederation
organized a convention of Central Govt employees’ organizations. There were
differences on various issues and even in the matter of joint movement of Rly,
Defence and other C.G.employees. Still by way of mutual discussion it was
decided to go on strike on 19th September 1968.
·
Central
Govt again promulgated an ordinance to declare the strike illegal.
·
Govt
issued recognition to 10 All India Unions (including one ED union) and FNPTO
(parallel to NFPTE), SBCO Union and Inspectors’ Association. Except last two
others (FNPTO & its affiliates) had no existence. Rammurthy being the
leader of FNPTO gave a statement in All India Radio opposing the strike calling
it a political one.
·
Still
25 lakhs CG employees participated in 1968 strike.
Penal measures taken
a)
Recognition
of the unions was withdrawn,
b)
12
employees were murdered by Police firing at Pathankot.
c)
12000
were arrested and suspended,
d)
7300
employees faced trial in the court for defiance of ordinance and/or instigation
for defiance.
e)
Termination
notices were served against 50000 temporary employees. In some cases instead of
notice one month’s salary was paid in advance and staff was relieved.
f)
During
resistance movement against penal measures Police opened fire in front of
Cossipore Gun and Shell Factory (in Calcutta) and 5 comrades were killed.
The left organizations
called 72 hours Bundh in West Bengal.
·
Five
Inspectors in West Bengal went on strike on 19th September 1968. All
were suspended. Afterwards four of them surrendered, but Com. Rabindra Lal
Bhattacharya faced Rule-14 charge sheet, reverted to clerical cadre for six
years.
·
Union’s
recognition was restored by court’s verdict. Notices for termination of service
to temporary staffs were also withdrawn by intervention of both political and
organizational levels.
·
The
political situation arisen out of 1967 general election, when Congress was
defeated in 9 states, created some favourable situation towards struggle.
Inner
Struggle Sharpened
1963 : After 6th
Federal Council in 1962 two parallel AIC of P-IV were held in Kashmir which
influenced 7th Federal Council.
1964 : The understanding
between A.S.Rajan and Rammurthy came to an end as A.S.Rajan understood the
anti-struggle approach of Rammurthy. Understanding between K.G.Bose-Rajan was
established in 1964 and continued upto 1978 or so.
1967 : There was strong
difference among the leaders about withdrawal of strike decision. Com.
K.Adinarayana, N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya etc. were against it.
It may be noted that the ideological differences in the
left movement of the country had its influence in trade union field including
employees organizations. There were various class & mass movements at one
side and attempts for class collaboration taking Pt. Nehru (afterwards Indira
Gandhi) as leader of progressive forces within Congress was also on. That had
influence on NFPTE.
1969 : All-out attempts were
made by the Govt, Congress Party and Postal administration towards growing of
FNPTO and its affiliates. But desired result could not be achieved during
consecutive three years. Domination of NFPTE among P&T workers could not be
reduced remarkably.
1971 : New game plan was
chalked out to create differences within NFPTE. Side by side new attacks were
launched in shape of reduction in number of deliveries, withdrawal of stamping
of letters with delivery stamp, withdrawal of orderly to IPOs etc. Com.
O.P.Gupta himself proposed for withdrawal of sorting section and converting
those to transit sections. Progressive leadership had to fight against all
these attempts.
·
Organizational
battle took a new shape. In P-III Jamshedpur AIC, a small group headed by Com.
A.Premnathan and K.L.Moza walked out and formed a committee. Conference elected
a team of leaders headed by K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan.
1972 : In Howrah Conference
of P-IV similar incident took place though there was no walk-out or strong difference
of opinions in the house.
·
Federal
Council in Kolkata faced similar attack. NFPTE was divided into two --- one led
by K.G.-Rajan and another by O.P.Gupta.
·
Confederation
was also divided by convening a meeting by S.Madhusudan during absence of Com.
Vyas. That meeting expelled Com. Vyas and N.J.Iyer and elected Madhusudan as
Secretary General.
·
Govt
recognized the body of the break away groups.
New
setup in labour movement
1970 : Centre of Indian
Trade Unions (CITU) was formed by the progressive forces in the labour movement
owing to undemocratic and class-collaborative line adopted by the AITUC
leaders.
1971 : National Council of
Trade Unions was formed comprising of AITUC, INTUC and H.M.S. at the initiative
of the then labour minister Mr. Khadilkar and direct patronization of Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi.
·
From a largely attended convention in New Delhi at
the initiative of CITU United Council of Trade Unions came into existence.
Besides CITU, HMP, UTUC, TUCC, A.I.Insurance Employees Asscn and NFPTE, headed
by Com. K.G.Bose and A.S.Rajan, joined that forum.
·
While
National Council of Trade Unions supported all steps taken by Ms. Indira
Gandhi, United Council of Trade Unions fought against the policy of wage
freeze, amendment of Labour Law and attack on democratic and trade union rights
during national emergency.
·
O.P.Gupta
group openly supported national emergency and 20-point program of National
Congress Party headed by Indira Gandhi.
·
During
emergency it was decided by the Govt to reduce 10% of D.A. and impose ½ % cut
on each installment of D.A. at that time. Com. N.J.Iyer, K.Adinarayana,
S.K.Vyas opposed emergency. Protest movement was launched against D.A cut by
these leaders.
Main difference within the trade unions and
employees organisations was based on the class outlook.
A section thought that Indira Gandhi, who decided to nationalize Banking
service and abolished the privy
purse, was progressive. But those decisions were taken as results of class and mass struggle.
So, the path of struggle was the correct one and not to find favour of the
Ruling Class. That struggle is still
continuing.
1970 : Third Pay Commission
was announced on 23.4.1970, with Raghubir Dayal as Chairman, H.N.Roy as
member-secretary and historian Dr. Nihar Ranjan Roy, Prof A.K.Dasgupta, Dr.
V.R.Pillai as members.
Need-based minimum wage was the
main issue.
·
On
7th October 1970 a separate committee for ED employees was formed
with the retired officer Madan Kishore as Chairman.
·
Interim
Relief of Rs.70/- for regular employees and Rs.35/- for ED employees were
demanded to maintain parity with the undertaken sectors.
·
3rd
Pay Commission granted Rs.15/- at lowest level and Rs.45/- at higher levels as
interim relief. In case of ED employees the amount was Rs.4/- and Rs.8/-
respectively.
This shows the
approach and outlook of the CPC and ED committee. Protest programs were
organized.
1972
: Based on the recommendation of Bonus
Commission set up by Central Govt, demand for bonus for C.G. employees was
raised.
·
According
to Bonus Commission Bonus was not a part of profit. Bonus is a deferred wage.
·
Madhu
Dhandavate placed a bill in the Parliament to that effect.
·
A
Bonus Convention was convened jointly by Confederation and A.I. State Govt
Employees Federation on 10th December 1970 at West Patelnagar, New
Delhi, on the demand ---- ‘Bonus For All’.
·
Rail
and Defence Employees Federations were approached to be the convener of the
convention, but they did not agree. Com. O.P.Gupta also denied.
·
Struggle
for Bonus to Central Govt employees started from that convention and it was
achieved in 1979. At the beginning there was doubt amongst a section of
employees because of the strong opinion expressed by the leaders like O.P.Gupta
and others. But the demand could be settled by way of determined struggle
launched by the progressive leadership.
·
1972 : Madan Kishore
Committee submitted its report in May 1972. In para 15.2 the committee opined: ‘if the working hours of the ED offices were
reduced to two hours one crore rupees would be saved by the Govt per year.’
The approach was quite clear. The
committee further opined: ‘crores of
rupees are spent by the Govt for payment of D.A. and D.A. increase speed up the
price rise.’
The process for granting ad-hoc
increase @5:2 in lieu of D.A. proposed to be discontinued by the committee
though the D.A. was not the subject matter of the committee. Govt accepted the
proposal. But because of de-recognition and disunity NFPTE could not build up
any effective movement. O.P.Gupta was not at all agreeable to any agitation.
On 12th
December 1972 a massive demonstration on ED-demand was held at Board Club
Maidan by the KG-Rajan group. Left MPs raised the ED demands in Parliament.
1973 : 3rd CPC
report was placed in the Parliament on 31st March. According to the
15th International Labour Convention (ILC) norm, minimum pay should
have been Rs.350/- per month. Demand of staff side was Rs.250/- p.m. to have
parity with the undertaking sector.
·
Pay
Commission recommended Rs.185/- p.m. as minimum, though they agreed that
Rs.196/- p.m. should be the minimum wage if the expenses for vegetarian were
taken into account. But they recommended Rs.185/- to reduce the pressure on
Govt exchequer.
·
The
CPC recommended following principle for grant of D.A. :
DA would be
admissible on 8-point price rise in 12 months, pay range upto Rs.350/- at 3.5%
with highest limit of Rs.10/-; pay range above Rs.350/- up to Rs.900/- at 2.5%
with highest limit of Rs.20/-.
Fixing of higher
limit deprived a section of employees from proper neutralization.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions opined that these recommendations were nothing but an
attack on working people at large.
·
No
negotiation could change the recommendations as per demand of the staff side.
So, confrontation became inevitable.
1974
: AIRF convened a convention of all
Central Govt employees organizations on 15th March 1974.
Confederation, both groups of NFPTE, FNPTO joined that convention. But other
organizations linked with INTUC did not join. The convention opined for a joint
strike if the demands were not settled by 10th April 1974.
·
All
the unions of Railway except INTUC formed a joint forum named National
Coordination Committee for Railwaymen’s Struggle (NCCRS).
·
All
India State Govt Employees Federation went on strike on 7th April
1974 in which change of recommendations of 3rd CPC was one of the
demands.
·
Loco
Running Staff Association went on work-to-rule from 15th April 1974.
NCCRS decided to launch continuous strike from 6 A.M., 8th May
1974.
·
S.Madhusudan
brought out a bulletin in the name of Confederation discouraging strike action.
·
NFPTE
headed by KG-Rajan group convened a meeting of all circle secretaries.
O.P.Gupta was also invited there. Guptaji told that he could not allow the
employees to go on strike and beaten by the Govt because of disunity. However,
the meeting decided to go on work-to-rule on 8th & 9th
May and strike from 10th May 1974 on own charter of demands.
·
Railwaymen’s
strike started on 8th May amidst massive attack, torture and arrest.
The water and electric connections to the staff quarters were cut.
·
Strike
of Central Govt employees under the leadership of S.K.Vyas, KG-Rajan could not
continue for more than three days. The class collaborationists came out in an
organized way to break the strike.
O.P.Gupta
managed 20% LSG promotion and launched anti-strike propaganda over phone.
·
United
Council of Trade Unions organized country-wide strike on 15th May
1974 in which Confederation also gave a call to participate.
·
1974
strike brought forward the question of unity as a prime need to safeguard the
interest of the employees. Actually disunity spread out upto the level of
branch level at the initiative of the leaders headed by O.P.Gupta. their target
was to cripple the way of struggle. 1974 strike projected that the
anti-struggle leadership was successful to some extent to weaken the movement.
·
An
ordinance was promulgated to keep 50% of DA increase in deposit and refund the
same afterwards in five installments. Need for resistance movement felt by
everybody.
·
22nd
August 1974 an order of bifurcation of P&T department was issued. But the
same was not implemented for reasons best known to the Govt.
·
Though
unity talk in P&T started in 1972 itself, K.G.Bose from his death-bed wrote
several letters for unity. The approach of KG-Rajan was to establish unity by
holding joint conference and electing leader democratically. O.P.Gupta was in
favour of post sharing as he had no majority in P-IV, RMS-III and NFPTE. The
convention held on 11.12.1972 decided to have democratic election at all
levels.
1975 : On 2nd June
some sorts of unity in P-III became possible. A list of office bearers by way
of post sharing was prepared and submitted. Govt recognized that list on 23rd
September 1975. But recognition to O.P.Gupta’s body in NFPTE was withdrawn for
non-holding of conference.
1976 : Federal Council was
invited from 6th to 8th August 1976 with a view to
establish unity. Because of disunity between O.P.Gupta and K.L.Moza and
Premnathan disunity took a new shape. Two sets of office bearers were claimed
to be elected in that Council.
1977 : Congress Party was
miserably defeated in Parliament election. A coalition Govt was formed at the
center for the first time under the leadership of Janata Party. Left parties
supported that Govt from outside.
1977 : Supreme Court gave
its landmark judgement stating ED employees holder of civil posts.
1978 : In the next assembly
elections Congress party was defeated again. In West Bengal and Kerala Left
parties came to power. Regional parties came to power in various states. Left
parties took a different way of development giving priority to the interests of
downtrodden within the frame wall of capitalist-feudal regime.
·
The
Janata Govt announced withdrawal of 1960, 1968, 1974 disabilities and
punishments awarded to the Govt employees. The Govt withdrew many of the
punishments including dismissals but not all.
·
The
Govt recognized the set of office bearers with D.Gnaniya as Secretary General
of NFPTE. D.Gnaniya decided to resolve the organizational disputes by way of
mutual discussions and arriving at consensus or by way of democratic elections.
In this process overall unity could be restored.
·
A
panel was set up with S.Bhuthalingam as chairman on 11.10.1977 to evolve the
principle for wages and income. The panel proposed minimum wage of Rs.100/-.
But that proposal was not in conformity with the fair wage and price policy of
Janata Party announced in their election manifesto. On the other hand the
lowest wage of ED employees was Rs.85/- for two hours duty. The wage of a Group-D
employee of that time was Rs.92.85 for two hours. Govt could not implement the
proposal because of strong resistance from the unions and supporting left
parties.
·
An
arbitration was constituted with J.S.Bedi as chairman for finalization of
principle for granting D.A. The terms of references were:
1.
First
nine installment of DA merger with pay.
2.
Refund
of DA installments withheld during emergency.
3.
Refund
of the amount of DA withdrawn during emergency.
The Govt did not announce
the report of the arbitration. They tried to settle the merger issue with some
conditionality, but were not ready to settle other issues. So, the differences
between Govt and staff side remain unsettled.
·
During
this period the Communication Minister himself gave birth to Bharatiya P&T
Employees Federation (BPTEF).
1976 : To celebrate silver
jubilee of NFPTE a national convention was convened at Patna where the
leadership comprising of divisional secretary, circle secretary, CHQ and
Federation assembled.
- Discussion
on ED demands was held one day. A 12 point charter of demands was
enumerated. To popularize these demands holding of circle and divisional
conferences was decided.
- Other
problems viz., wage parity with undertaking sector, running scale to
avoid stagnation, bonus and two promotions were discussed and decided to
be pursued in coming days.
- But
the path for achievement of these demands was decided to be negotiated
settlement and practically dropped the way of negotiation backed by
movement.
1979/1980 : Productivity-liked
Bonus was announced ---- employees discriminated.
·
Unabated
price rise, non-settlement of full neutralisation, non-payment of due D.A.
installments, shortage of staff, scanty accommodation, non-restoration of DA to
ED employees, removal of discrimination on bonus and non-settlement of two
promotions etc. were agitating the minds of C.G. employees at large.
·
C.M.Stephen,
the then communication minister, raised a slogan of ‘discipline, skill and
responsibility’. But he was not ready to accept the concept that because of
exploitation deterioration of discipline, skill and responsibility occur.
·
Indira
Gandhi returned to power in midterm poll consequent of Janata Party’s defection
on the debate of dual membership of Janata Party and RSS. Bharatiya Janata
Party was formed at the instances of RSS and they came out from Janata Govt.
·
Confederation
decided some demonstrative movement. NFPTE decided to go on strike in July
1981. Attempts were made to unify three federations in that struggle. Strike
ballot was conducted.
1981 : The Govt promulgated
an ordinance preventing all strike actions. NFPTE leadership decided to conduct
hunger fast program from 12th October and non-cooperation by all.
Com. K.L.Moza informed the Govt that he (P-III) would not join the strike. He
separately gave strike notice to halt withdrawal of savings bank from post
office. But none of the action programs was materialized.
·
The
ordinance was subsequently converted into an act. National Campaign Committee
was formed at the initiative of CITU and excepting INTUC. The committee decided
following action:
1.
17th
August 1981 è
Black Day against the act.
2.
21st
November 1981 à March to Parliament.
3.
19th
January 1982 à
Bharat Bundh.
A section of INTUC (Dara
Group) joined the program.
1982 : The Govt was
propagating since 1980 that staff side should choose anyone of the demands and
the same would be settled. Rest of the demands would be kept pending upto March
1983. Those who were not connected with productivity could not get bonus. A
section of leadership of both NFPTE and Confederation were agreeable to accept
this proposal. But for opposition of the rest of the leaders and the leaders of
AIDEF no agreement was possible.
·
Agitation
started at the joint call of Confederation and AIDEF but it could not create
any pressure on the Govt. Massive attack let loose by the Govt at various
places.
·
4th
CPC was announced on 28th February 1982 in the Parliament. The
proposal for bipartite wage agreement mooted early was practically abandoned.
·
Proposal
for Rs.140/- as interim relief was turned down in connivance with anti-struggle
forces. 4th CPC was constituted with Justice P.N.Mathur as the
chairman, Prof Mathur, M.V.Kakkar, Gopaldas Nag as members and A.K. Majumder as
member-secretary. Induction of employees representative in CPC was not also
accepted.
·
O.P.Gupta
gave consent to refer all the pending demands to CPC. In seventh Federal
Council O.P.Gupta moved a proposal to accept two promotions on matching-savings
which was opposed by N.J.Iyer, Sisir Bhattacharya, K.Adinarayana, Sadaram
Tanwar, P.N.Mehta etc.
·
In
replying to the debate on need-based minimum wages to the Central Govt
employees the then Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee opined that the employees
may be agitated for need-based minimum wages or for wage parity with
undertaking sector for another hundred years, but Govt would pay which it
could.
·
Despite
disunity in thinking on various aspects amongst the leaders an unified approach
was reflected in the memorandum to 4th CPC. Wage parity was the
central point in the demand to CPC.
·
1983 : Curtailment in number
of deliveries in metro cities was started in Calcutta. A resistance movement
succeeded at initial stage by way of agitation at circle level. But over the
years curtailment of delivery was imposed despite strike action at various
places.
1984 : Ban on recruitment
and creation of posts were imposed for six months from 01.01.1984 and
afterwards that ban continued till date.
·
Non-settlement
of demands of ED employees specially the issue of restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) was agitating the minds of ED employees. NFPTE leadership took little
interest to resolve the issues. Even serious negotiation on 12 point charter of
demands as decided in Patna Convention was also lacking.
·
Considering
the circumstances p-IV CWC decided to launch one-day token strike exclusively
on ED demands viz., interim relief to ED employees, restoration of DA (adhoc
increase) since 01.01.1973 and other proportionate facilities. 19th
September 1984 was the date of strike. P-III CHQ despite having ED membership
did not take any decision to join or lend any support to that strike action.
FNPTO opposed the strike throughout the country.
·
Class-III
circle secretaries in Kerala, West Bengal and Assam decided to join the strike.
The strike was a success. Class-III union at different places joined the
strike.
·
One
ED committee was formed by the Govt with R.R.Savoor, a retired officer of the
department as chairman on 5h November 1984.
·
156
RMS sorting sections were ordered to be closed. It was also decided to close
down SROs. Five installments of DA became due. Govt was delaying its decision
on DA. Of course, one promotion at 16 years of service on matching savings was
introduced. Grant of interim relief was being delayed.
·
The
doors of JCM were closed. Formal meetings with heads of administration were
stooped. So, there was no scope for negotiation.
1985 : RMS & MMS
Class-III unions decided to go on token strike on 6th June 1985. The
strike was a grand success. In this case NFPTE could not give any positive call
for solidarity except to do whatever possible.
·
After
6th June, six RTP staff were not allowed to join in West Bengal.
Both R-III & R-IV started cease work program. No decision was forthcoming
to reinstate the RTP staff. The Chief Minister of West Bengal Com. Jyoti Basu
intervened and got the issue settled. Employees were enthused very much.
·
P&T
department was bifurcated into two from 01.01.1985 by an announcement. Formal
notification was made on 4th June 1985. The reason, as told, was to
modernize the telecom service by its profit, which was so long was utilised to
subsidize the loss of Postal services. Communication Minister announced to
mobilize fund by selling bonds for modernization. Such contradiction existed.
NFPTE did neither want such bifurcation, nor protested against such action.
O.P.Gupta was the Secretary General at that time. In a press release he
mentioned the possibilities of corporatisation and privatization. But the
proposal was not opposed.
·
Efforts towards bifurcation of Federation :
In April 1985 a
debate took place in P-III CWC about bifurcation of Federation. Three comrades
opposed the proposal. An argument was raised that the Postal leaders of NFPTE
may not be accepted by the Telecom authorities and likewise the Postal
authorities may not accept the leaders belonging to Telecom to discuss the
problems.
·
On
9th December 1985 Department of Personnel instructed NFPTE to
constitute two Federations according to departmental set up.
·
A
section of leaders were of the opinion that Postal wing can move towards
achievement of their demands by way of struggle, though they were against
bifurcation.
·
18th
Federal Council of NFPTE was held in Calcutta from 17th to 19th
March 1985 at Oswal Bhavan. After discussion two Federations, viz., National
Federation of Telecom Employees (NFTE) and National Federation of Postal
Employees (NFPE) were constituted. It was also decided that NFPTE would also
remain. A body was also selected, but to no effect. Though most of the
delegates wanted Com. Adi as Secretary General but for the sake of unity Com.
K.L.Moza was accepted as Secretary General.
·
1986
: The Outlook of 4th CPC
:
‘In regard to payment of
wages how much the employer can pay is the main feature and that aspect has been
carefully considered.’ (Para 7.67)
As
regards wage parity the CPC opined that during 1970-71 and 1984-85, 344% wage
increase took place in
undertaking sector. It would not be wise to thrust upon so much burden on the
Govt. (Para 5.12) 4th CPC recommended 20% wage
increase at lowest level and Rs.900/- at highest level. It, however, recommended a concrete D.A.
formula of granting DA at the interval of six months (at the end of June and December) on 12 monthly
average increases in price index.
Main Thrust of Savoor Committee :
The committee proposed to abolish ED Nightguard, ED Chowkidar, Sweeper,
Safaiwala, Farash etc. and to entrust
the job to contingent-paid employees. Abolition of the posts of orderly to Inspectors
and mail overseers were also
proposed. Another proposal was to close down EDBOs, which were unremunerative and to introduce
Licensed Agency services at the cost of Rs.50/- each. In short, the committee proposed cheaper postal
system.
The positive side of the report was to introduce allowances
proportionate to regular employees.
The Govt accepted most of the recommendations of Savoor Committee and a
large number of contingent-paid employees
were engaged in pace of ED employees. It was ensured by the Unions/Federation that none of the ED
employees was retrenched. Contingent-paid employees would be engaged only in vacant posts.
JOURNEY OF
NFPE
NFPE has crossed 27 years of its journey. During this period NFPE has
built up joint movement of Postal
Workers, strengthened the movement led by Confederation and linked the Postal
movement to main stream of
struggle.
1987 : A call of seven days’
strike could be given by NFPE, FNPO and BPEF. For the first time problem of
postal services were included in the charter.
Though the strike did not take place, an agreement was reached by the
department and the Federations at the instances of Chief Central Labour
Commissioner.
1989 : Govt did not
implement most of the items of the agreement. As a result NFPE decided to
organize strike action. But other Federations did not agree. NFPE went alone to
conduct token strike in 1989.
·
A
nationwide strike was organized by left trade unions against the misrule of
Rajiv Gandhi to
have an alternative. NFPE / Confederation could not give a concrete call.
Advice was given to do whatever possible in support of strike.
·
Requirement
of struggle at departmental level and against the policy of the Govt. was
there. But NFPE leadership, specially Com. Moza tried to limit the
organizational efforts to settle the fringe benefit related issues but was not
in a mood to oppose the postal policy which was against the interest of the
service as well as of the employees.
1991
: Second promotion on matching
savings was achieved.
1992 : In third Federal
Council at Dharwar the progressive leadership headed by N.J.Iyer and
K.Adinarayana was established. Not only that, the Council decided to join the main stream of struggle as a policy. Since then postal
employees became an integral part of
national mass movement. Such stand influenced Confederation which also
became part of national movement.
1993 : An united strike struggle became possible for four days by three Federations, All India
Postal Accounts Staff Association and Association of IPOs & IRMs. A strike
call was given by that joint forum. Such unity did not last for a considerable
period, although Postal Accounts Employees Association became the partner of
NFPE.
·
NFPE
launched strike struggle in 1996, 1998 and 2000 for 6 days, 8 days and 14 days
respectively. In 1996 bonus ceiling was enhanced. In 1998 scale of allowance
with increment, leave with allowances and some other financial demands of ED
and regular employees were settled. But in 2000 such notable achievement was
not there.
These strike struggles
brought two major questions forward, viz., whether extra-militancy was being
exhibited by NFPE and strike should be organized to achieve something.
During these periods
of struggles membership of NFPE increased in various parts of the country but in weaker states
employees got a belief that NFPE and FNPO are the struggling organisations. The differences
between two Federations could not be established by the leaders exhibiting their fighting spirit and sacrifice.
·
Inner
contradiction within NFPE leadership was also there. After Dharwar K.L.Moza was
replaced by R.A.P.Singh in P-III with a view to strengthen NFPE. Later
R.A.P.Singh (popularly known as Masterji) became critical of NFPE
leadership after 1998 strike though he was taken into confidence by the
leaders.
·
Introduction
of CCS(RSA) Rules 1993 and 1995 was fought together. But there were some soft
corners to check-off system on the part of a section of leadership because of
the fact that amount of collection of subscription would be more and that too
without devoting any labour.
·
After
introduction of New Recognition Rules formation of ED Union at various levels
could be possible without much difference. All India leadership was also chosen
by a consensus amongst the leaders. Change over of leadership to serving
employees was also based on consensus.
2002 : Complications arose
after release of recognition rules for the Federations. Federal Council held in
October 2002 in Kolkata exhibited a sharp difference. There were certain
impacts of last ED All India Conference held at Tamilnadu where money power and
muscle power were exhibited. Attempts were made to combine R-IV,GDS union and
major chunk of P-III against NFPE leadership. But due to the role played by the
President and G.S. of P-III, functional unity of NFPE could be preserved.
·
The
main issue for consideration before the progressive forces was how to establish pro-NFPE leadership in GDS Union and also in
P-III afterwards. In Jwalamukhi AIC of P-III the team headed by M.Krishnan and
K.V.Sridharan took over and tried to streamline the organisation to strengthen
NFPE and to fulfill the requirement of struggle.
·
After
fifth CPC and Geethakrishnan Commission’s recommendation the Govt took their
efforts to outsource and curtailed the postal services with view to
privatization. Various programs including strike action were launched and
compelled the Govt not to reduce the postal service by introducing licensed
agency, Panchayet Sanchar Seva Yojana, closure of single and double-handed post
offices and lastly closure of 9797 post offices. These were the great
achievements during the regime of Neo-liberal economy.
2008 onwards : General
Secretary of sole recognized GDS Union failed to maintain unity of postal
movement being the part of NFPE. His call for fragmented strike from 18th
December 2008 jeopardised the attempt of joint movement and placed the
settlement of GDS demands in back foot. It became impossible to continue with
him in the interest of GDS employees and joint movement as well. Under this
compelling situation NFPE had to organize the GDS Union separately and fight. Inner
struggle in the organisation should not stop ---- this is the heritage of NFPE.
.
.
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