BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 7th January 2024: In a desperate plea for their livelihoods, 120 employees of the Ttripura Rehabilitation Plantation Corporation (TRPC) have yet to receive their December salaries, sparking widespread distress among the workforce.
The TRPC Employees’ Organization, led by General Secretary Santosh Chowdhury, issued a stern warning to TRPC Chairman Patal Kanya during a protest at the Gorkhabasti on Sunday.
The protesting employees, many with over 30 years of service, traditionally receive their salaries on the 1st of each month. However, Chairman Patal Kanya declared through a video conference that the employees would not be paid, leaving them in dire financial straits. The chairman’s directive, citing an alleged wasteful use of funds on car rides, has further fueled the discontent.
Chowdhury, speaking from the protest, questioned the chairman’s decision, stating, “Madam will give money from the house or not? Employees must be paid.” He expressed disbelief at the chairman’s public announcement of non-payment through video conference, emphasizing that 120 employees and their families were adversely affected.
The organization demands clear communication on the payment of December and January salaries by February 1. Failure to do so will result in a work stoppage by the employees. Moreover, they criticize what they perceive as unnecessary spending by Chairman Patal Kanya, highlighting their intent to bring the matter to the attention of the Human Rights Commission if their demands are not met.
Adding to the controversy, concerns were raised about a person named GS Rathe brought from Delhi by Patal Kanya’s daughter. General Secretary Santosh Chowdhury expressed suspicion about Rathe’s identity, hinting at the possibility of being a prisoner. He insisted that this person has no place in the office and accused him of potentially harming TRPC’s interests.
The organization plans to submit a final letter to the Managing Director within 24 hours, with a warning that Chairman Patal Kanya could face legal repercussions for the non-payment declaration. The employees are prepared to take their grievances to the Human Rights Commission if necessary, vowing to resist the entry of GS Rathe into TRPC premises.
