Following complaints from several quarters, the Labour Department has set up a joint inspection team to deal with issues related to loading and unloading goods.
Since the team was formed in February, five complaints received. “In the recent past, there have been a number of complaints regarding unloading of goods in terms of the amount being charged and labour problems. Following this, a Labour Department called a meeting of police officials, trade union leaders, traders and members of the Chambre de Commerce. The formation of the inspection team was decided there, Labour Commissioner Srinivasan said.
The team would comprise the station house officer from the respective jurisdiction and an official from the Labour Department, either the enforcement officer or assistant inspectors of labour.
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As per the order issued, the team has the right to take action when there is a demand to undertake loading and unloading work connected with domestic purposes after the employer has refused to engage any worker, demand to be paid without completing work done and intimidation of the employer. The team would also submit reports to the Secretary.
According to Mr. Srinivasan, there is also a Loading and Unloading Act that has been sent for approval to the Centre before enactment. People who have complaints could contact 0413-2342851 to lodge a complaint.
On Tuesday, loading and unloading workers from Puducherry staged a protest outside Newtone Theatre after a group of them were allegedly arrested by the Grand Bazaar police following a wrong complaint from traders’ association over a loading issue. The protestors were demanding that a proper inquiry be conducted before action is taken.
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