Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment Bandaru Dattatreya said here on Saturday that West Bengal records the highest number of lockouts in the country. He described the present situation of tea plantations in Bengal as “pathetic.”
Mr. Dattatreya said, “I cannot give you any specific reason in this regard. I am not referring to the present situation, but in totality.”
The remarks made by the Union Minister at an event in the city are significant as it comes at a time when a number of jute mills and tea gardens are closing in the State.
Mr. Dattatreya also said that it is necessary for Bengal to create a “conducive atmosphere” to speed up development measures as well as to safeguard the workers’ interest.
Mr. Dattatreya also pointed out that unless there was a growth in employment generation, and a harmonious relationship between the employee and employer, the “development would not speed up.”
Mr. Dattatreya said that he has invited Bengal Labour Minister Moloy Ghatak to Delhi to discuss this matter along with other issues.
