The Hindu Business Line : Production not hit by agitation, says Honda

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) on Friday said that production at its plant was not affected by the current agitation by a section of the workers.

The company added that only about 150 contract workers are currently involved in the agitation.

"The company signed an agreement with the worker's union on September 17. Salient features of the agreement, which was accepted by the union, include a productivity linked incentive scheme for the permanent workers. Contract workers are outside the purview of the agreement," Mr H.S. Shekhawat, Vice President - General Affairs, HMSI said.

A strike in July 2005 at HMSI's factory had turned violent when police clashed with striking workers.

Last year's strike had also severely impacted production at HMSI's plant.

Currently, HMSI has about 2,000 permanent workers and about 600-700 contract workers.

Govt help

"We have requested the Government of Haryana to help us with the matter. The State Government's labour department has already met with the agitating workers," Mr Shekhawat said.

According to sources, the striking contract workers are demanding to be made permanent, claiming that they have worked with the firm for more than six months.

Mr Shekhawat, however, refuted the claim stating that since the requirement of contract workers at the plant is only on a seasonal basis, no contract worker is with the company for a long period of time, that is, for more than 180 days.

Mr Shekhawat further added that none of the contract workers are involved with the assembly line and are mainly in routine tasks such as housekeeping.

Earlier this week, a section of HMSI workers had declared a flash strike at the factory in Manesar.

More Stories on : Trade & Labour Unions | Two/Three Wheelers

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page