Union Demands Worker-Friendly Policies and Transparent Schemes
In a significant gathering, over 20 unions from across Maharashtra convened under the banner of the Maharashtra Rajya Bandhkamgar Sahyukt Kruti Samiti (MRBSKS) to confront rampant corruption and inefficiencies within the Maharashtra Building and Other Construction Workers Board (MBoCW). The unions brought to light allegations of misappropriation of funds amounting to crores, highlighting serious malpractices in contracting and the implementation of schemes that fail to benefit the workers they are intended for.
A major point of contention is the Board’s decision to hire contract workers despite having sufficient resources to provide permanent positions. This reliance on temporary labor has been identified as a primary source of corruption within the Board. Furthermore, the introduction of schemes like the Household Kit and Safety Kit has drawn criticism, with workers claiming these initiatives are merely election strategies aimed at securing votes rather than addressing their actual needs.
Union leaders emphasized that these schemes were never requested by the workers. Instead, they are advocating for essential programs such as scholarships, housing, healthcare, and other vital services that the Board has largely ignored.
During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the Board’s suspension of worker registration during the Election Code of Conduct, a situation exacerbated by the continuous cycles of elections at various levels. MRBSKS argues that this practice violates the Building and Other Construction Workers Act (BoCW Act) and plans to take legal action against it. Renowned legal expert Adv. Sudha Bharadwaj provided insights into these legal challenges during the meeting.
Prominent figures in attendance included senior leaders and activists like Rajkumar Holkar, Vinita Balakundri, Sagar Tayde, Bilal Khan, Prashant Meshram, and Sunil Ahire, all showing their unwavering support for the cause.
In response to the pervasive corruption within the Board, MRBSKS has announced plans to organize demonstrations at both state and district levels. Their objectives include demanding accountable and timely registration processes, as well as the prompt delivery of genuinely beneficial schemes to the workers.
For further information, please contact:
- Bilal Khan: 9958660556
- Vinita Balakundri: 80970 60752
- Rajkumar Holkar: 9890596098
