Talks between the Bajaj Auto management and the workers Union, held here today in the presence of the Pune additional labour commissioner R.R. Hendre have moved forward, with indications that both sides are softening their stands.

The talks centred on resumption of work, subsequent to which negotiations could take place, Hendre said at the end of a three-hour meeting at the Labour Commissioner’s office. He held discussions with both parties independently and jointly, and said the tension between the sides seemed to have eased.

Meanwhile, Bajaj Auto said the company was achieving 88 per cent of normal motorcycle production, after shifting part of the production to its Waluj plant. Around 630 people reported to work at Chakan today, including trainees, and apprentices under the earn-and-learn scheme, K.J. Zanzari, VP, Manufacturing (Motorcycles), said, adding that some engineers both from Chakan and its Akurdi facility were helping with the manufacture.

In addition to virtually free shares to each member, the Bajaj Auto Union has asked for a Rs 25,000 rise in wages. The current wages range from Rs 20,000 to Rs 26000 for workers with five years experience and ranked among the top five companies in the city for similar work experience, Zanzari said.

The company would have undertaken wage revision in April 2013, if the Union had not unilaterally terminated the existing agreement prematurely on March 9, he added.

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