Metro guards go on flash strike; MSSC says it will dismiss them

Maharashtra Security Force seeks permanent employment

September 20, 2017 12:14 am | Updated 12:14 am IST

Time for decision:  Personnel of the Maharashtra Security Force during a strike on Tuesday.

Time for decision: Personnel of the Maharashtra Security Force during a strike on Tuesday.

Mumbai: Metro services were affected on Tuesday after Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) guards deployed on the Mumbai Metro-I corridor went on a flash strike.

Around 650 guards turned up at all 12 stations on the Ghatkopar–Andheri corridor, but did not report for duty. They demanded that their 11-month contract be abolished and they be made permanent.

“After working for nearly four years, I am not sure about my job. At the time of renewal, I start looking for options, thinking that I will be left unemployed if the authorities don’t consider me fit,” said Girish Chauhan, one of the guards.

Kanika Shinde, another guard, said, “We were recruited after a rigorous training of two months. But with the kind of ammunition we are provided with, we can’t defend even a single commuter. The rifles that we carry are as good as show pieces since they are already used by the Mumbai Police.”

Some MSF guards alleged that there had recently been lay-offs, and that sick leaves were not granted.

However, some were seen going about their duties. “I don’t believe in quitting my work and protesting. Not that what others are doing is wrong, but somebody needs to understand the responsibilities. Being a security guard is a responsible job and cannot be abandoned,” said Srikant Pangarkar, a senior MSF guard at Ghatkopar Metro station.

A Mumbai Metro One spokesperson said, “Today some MSF staff did not report for duty without notice. The MSF is not attached to the Metro, but are deployed by the State government. Keeping in mind the security of commuters, the Mumbai Metro One made alternative arrangements. We have also apprised the issue to the State, MMRDA, and the Mumbai Police. Metro services are not affected.”

Director General of Police Sanjay Barve, who is also the managing director of the MSSC, said, “The guards who were on strike will be dismissed. All the guards are told at the time of recruitment that they are being hired on contract. The personnel are being incited by a former MSF guard who was dismissed in 2014 because he was trying to mobilise a protest, which is not allowed in a uniformed service.”

Mr. Barve said the guards are given a lot of benefits, including provident fund, medical benefits, and insurance in case they are hurt or killed on the job. “Many guards apply for the Maharashtra Police jobs a second time and if they get selected, we relieve them immediately and even pay their PF within a day.”

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