“All Aboard the Uncertainty Express: Railway Unions Issue May 1 Ultimatum – Here’s the Story Behind the Threat”
Multiple railway employee unions and workers threatened to stop all train services across India from 1st May if their demands related to the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) were not met. The Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS) represents these unions in their collective efforts.
The decision to carry out the “ Indefinite Strike for OPS on International Labour Day that is 1st May 2024” was taken during the JFROPS core committee meeting, said the former convener of JFROPS and the general secretary of All India Railwaymen’s Federation.
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In a recent tweet on X (Twitter), Mishra shared a notice detailing plans for an indefinite strike. The notice announced the unanimous decision to serve an “Indefinite Strike Notice” in accordance with relevant rules on March 19, 2024, with the strike set to commence on May 1, 2024, coinciding with International Labour Day.
The press note highlighted the committee’s thorough consideration of the current situation and the government’s lack of response regarding the restoration of the Defined Guaranteed Old Pension Scheme in place of the NPS (New Pension Scheme). Consequently, the committee concluded that direct action by all constituent trade unions collectively is the only viable course of action.
Shiva Gopal Mishra, speaking to PTI, emphasized the government’s reluctance to address their demand for reinstating the ‘Defined Guaranteed Old Pension Scheme’ over the ‘New Pension Scheme’. With negotiations at a standstill, direct action appears inevitable, he asserted.
Representatives from various federations under the Joint Forum For Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS) have collectively agreed to serve an official notice to the Railway Ministry on March 19. This notice will serve as a formal announcement of the nationwide strike, resulting in the cessation of all train services from May 1.
Image Source:- Times Now
Mishra highlighted that several unions representing other government employees, affiliated with JFROPS, will join the railway workers in the strike.
In a press statement issued by JFROPS, it was emphasized that all constituent organizations must prepare for serving the strike notice to their respective Administrations effectively.
Mishra underscored the disparity between the Old Pension Scheme, which prioritized workers’ interests, and the New Pension Scheme, which neglects employee welfare.
Author:- Apoorva Arora