September 19

Today, it is 19 September. 51 years ago on 19-9-1968, central government employees went on a token strike for one day demanding Need Based Minimum wage etc.They did not attend the work for one day. The government led by late Smt. Indira Gandhi suppressed the agitation with all forces at its command. 17 comrades were killed in firing, lathcharge etc. Thousands were suspended from service. Thousands more were terminated. Thousands were transferred from one place to another. Some leaders also betrayed the workers. It is history now.

Just for not attending the office for a day. Now, despite employees attended and worked for 31 days, Management delayed their wages for 19 days. Management struck work for 19 days in BSNL and for 50 days in MTNL !!!

All forgot the Need Based Minimum wage.

All forgot the Martyrs of that struggle.

But, no struggle goes in vain. Many of us are products of that struggle. We were made stronger like steel due to the sufferings of those days. Our direction was changed. Our approach to life was changed.

On this day, let us pay homage to those comrades who did the extreme sacrifice.

Let us not forget history. We enjoy the decent pension now and a decent life because of the struggles …. PSR

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