The Manipur Branch of the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) has urged the Government of Manipur to intervene in addressing the rising cost of essential commodities, the disparity in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR), and the lack of job security for workers in the state.
The issues were raised by INTUC Manipur Branch President Yumnam Ranapratap during the 316th Working Committee Meeting of the Indian National Trade Union Congress, which commenced today at Bangaluru, Karnataka and will continue until June 30. INTUC Manipur Branch Vice-President Haobam Balesor is also attending the meeting.
Addressing the national forum, Yumnam Ranapratap highlighted the sharp increase in the prices of essential commodities in Manipur and expressed concern over the disparity in DA and DR benefits received by employees and pensioners in the state.
He pointed out that employees and retired personnel of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in Manipur are currently receiving 42 per cent DA and DR, while Central Government employees across the country are receiving 60 per cent, leaving employees and pensioners in Manipur with an 18 per cent shortfall.
Ranapratap also raised the issue of job insecurity faced by many workers and called for the regularisation of eligible employees. He urged the Government of Manipur to take appropriate measures to address these longstanding concerns affecting employees and pensioners in the state.
According to a statement issued by the INTUC Manipur Branch, the Working Committee also discussed the prevailing national political situation and deliberated on organisational strategies in view of the upcoming State Assembly elections scheduled for next year, along with other matters concerning the organisation.