The Mawmluh Cherra Cement Limited Employees Union (MCCLEU) today staged a sit-in demonstration in front of the company’s head office to demand regular payment of salaries.
The bankrupt company, which the government is hoping to sell off, at least partially, has been unable to meet the wage expenses of its workers and has built up a backlog of pending salaries.
Speaking to media persons, MCCLEU president Shanlang Lyngdoh said that the executive committee of the union held its general meeting on May 9 where the unanimous decision was taken to demand for regular payment of salaries.
Though the union does not have the exact details, it is likely that the state government would need to shell out Rs 200 crore to clear the backlog, Lyngdoh added.
He also said that the state government should implement the voluntary retirement scheme or golden handshake to willing employees.
Meanwhile Nongskhen MDC Grace Mary Kharpuri was present to show solidarity. As representative of the region, she said that she is concerned for the welfare of the MCCL employees. Kharpuri added that she will accompany the union to meet representatives of the state government and senior cement plant officials in order to discuss their issues.