JNU Workers' Protest Continues for Eighth Day Amid Diwali Gloom, Employees Await Pending Bonus

New Delhi:  While the lights of Diwali illuminated Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) with festive joy, a shadow of disappointment prevailed in the homes of workers who manage the university's daily operations. The protest by sanitation, mess, and security workers demanding their rights and dignity continued for the eighth consecutive day. The workers alleged that the university administration and contractors were ignoring their legitimate demands.

AICCTU Highlights Pending Bonus and Basic Labour Rights

The All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU) stated that the workers' major demands include payment of pending bonuses, an increase in workforce strength, entitlement to earned leave (EL) and casual leave (CL), maternity benefits, and other fundamental labour rights. Discussions had been held among the Labour Commission, the JNU Workers' Union, and the university administration to resolve the issue. However, the workers alleged that despite the directives and assurances given during the negotiations, neither the university administration nor the contractors had taken the expected steps to implement them.

Workers Demand Dignity and Justice Beyond Bonus

 The employees stated that the very hands responsible for maintaining the university's cleanliness, food services, and security were denied their rightful benefits during the festive season. Diwali has passed, but the wait for the pending bonus continues. The protesters made it clear that their struggle is not limited to bonus payments but also concerns dignified working conditions and legally guaranteed labour rights. All eyes are now on the university administration and when it will finally address the workers' grievances.