The powerloom weavers of Sircilla textile town, who had launched an indefinite strike demanding an increase in wages, called off their 11-day strike on Wednesday night and resumed their duties on Thursday following the powerloom owners’ decision to increase their wages.
The powerloom weavers were demanding an increase in wages by Rs. 0.18 paise per 10 pics of cloth produced on the loom against the existing Rs. 0.14-5 paise per 10 pics. However, after persuasion by the elected representatives and the district officials, the powerloom owners have agreed to increase the wages from the existing Rs. 0.14.5 paise to Rs. 0.17 paise per 10 pics of cloth produced on the loom.
However, other demands such as providing eight-hours of work, bonus etc. were not accepted. The powerloom weavers trade union leaders said that they were forced to accept the increased wages and neglect other demands in the interest of the weavers, who had been denied wages for the last 11 days.
The owners have promised to continue providing Rs. 600 per annum as bonus. The district handlooms and textiles department has assured the weavers that they will distribute identity cards to them. The powerlooms produce around 50 lakh metres of fabric on the looms in Sircilla town every day.
