INTUC to Himachal Govt: Recognize Us or Clarify Your Stand.
Shimla:
The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) has urged the Himachal Pradesh government and the Congress party to clarify their stance on labor representation and recognize INTUC as the official union in the state. Addressing a press conference in Mandi, District president of INTUC Y.P. Kapoor outlined several key demands and concerns affecting workers across sectors.
Kapoor referred to a recent Delhi High Court judgment that, according to INTUC, reaffirmed the recognition of INTUC-affiliated worker representation across industries such as coal mines and steel. He stated that previous restrictions imposed on INTUC had been lifted, strengthening the organization’s position as a legitimate labor body.
Despite this, Kapoor questioned why INTUC representatives are not being formally invited or consulted in official forums. He noted that even though Congress leaders, including MLA Hardeep Singh Bawa from Nalagarh, are associated with the party, INTUC’s role remains unclear at the state level. With elections approaching and more than three years having passed, he called on the Himachal Pradesh government and the Congress leadership to clearly define their labor policy and grant INTUC formal recognition through structured meetings.
Kapoor also criticized what he described as “self-styled groups” attempting to mislead workers and tarnish INTUC’s image. He alleged that such activities could indirectly benefit divisive forces and weaken organized labor.
On national labor policies, INTUC demanded that the central government roll back the four labor codes introduced by replacing 29 existing labor laws. Kapoor called for the restoration of the earlier framework, arguing that it better protected workers’ rights and ensured justice and dignity for the working class.
The union also raised concerns about the implementation of MGNREGA in Himachal Pradesh. While acknowledging the Congress government’s protests on related issues, Kapoor said that thousands of registered MGNREGA workers are facing difficulties due to the state’s failure to provide its 40% contribution. He claimed that this has made the scheme ineffective in the state and that workers are not receiving essential benefits such as medical facilities and other welfare provisions.
During the press conference, INTUC announced several organizational appointments aimed at strengthening its structure. Chet Ram was appointed as Chief Organizing Secretary at the district level, while Sohan Singh was named Block President for Dharampur. Tek Chand Rana was also assigned a district-level responsibility.
Kapoor further announced upcoming meetings in Jogindernagar and Nachan, followed by a larger workers’ conference planned in Mandi to mobilize labor support and address pressing issues.
The press conference concluded with INTUC reiterating its commitment to workers’ rights and warning that it would clarify its own stance if the government fails to respond in a timely manner.
