The West Bengal Government today described the layoff notice issued by Dunlop management at Sahagunj facility of the company in the State as “unacceptable and arbitrary”.

The notice was issued in the late afternoon on April 2 citing financial constraints due to spiralling price of raw materials. During the layoff period, the 950 workers will be getting dearness allowances and half of the basic wages.

According to the State Labour Minister, Mr Anadi Sahoo, the notice was issued without keeping the State administration posted. The State Government will open dialogue with both the trade unions as well as the management in this regard.

According to trade union sources, the notice was issued a week before the existing wage pact is up for renewal. The unions also joined a meeting with the district administration this afternoon.

Ruia's response

In a response to Business Line , the company Chairman, Mr Pawan Kumar Ruia, said: “Our new production plan for Sahagunj is on its way and the layoff would soon be withdrawn.” Details of the said “production plan” is not known.