9 April, 2009New shipbreaking union tests its might as more than 20,000 workers in Alang down tools to protest wage cuts.
INDIA: Working in the one of the world's most hazardous industries is challenging enough, but when faced with employers who show no regard for human rights, its about as tough as life can get. Hope and optimism is not something you would naturally associate with this industry but that's what the workers at the Alang/ Sosiya shipbreaking yard in India have provided for workers worldwide after a recent successful strike.
On March 23-24 more than 20,000 shipbreaking workers under the leadership of the newly formed and registered trade union, Alang Sosiya Ship Recycling and General Workers Association, downed tools in protest over an attempt by employers and contractors to reduce the workers pay from Rs330 (4.00 €) to Rs 225 ( 3.38 €) a day.
Shipyard employers have used the recent global economic crisis as a way to try and further exploit workers, regardless of the fact that there has been an increase in workload.
During the strike, employers attempted to obtain an injunction to prevent union officials from entering the shipbreaking yards as part of a wider attempt to bust the union, however Bro V.V.Rane, general secretary of the new union, was able to maintain solidarity amongst the workers and force the employers and contractors to concede to worker demands, delivering an important victory for the newly formed union.
The struggle highlights employers' increasing attempts to prevent union building in Alang. The International Metalworkers' Federation and its affiliates stand shoulder to shoulder with the workers in Alang and will ensure that any future attempts meet the strongest possible response.