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Title: Problems being faced by casual workers of Indian Airlines.
SHRI T.K. HAMZA (MANJERI): Thank you Sir, for giving me this opportunity to speak.
I would like to bring to the notice of the hon. Minister of Civil Aviation certain facts with respect to the casual workers engaged by the Indian Airlines. They were having continuous service for more than 15 years. The workers designated as casuals are working in regular posts. They are given employment for 120 days in a year and an artificial break is given in their services so that the employees should not get the protection of the Industrial Disputes Act. They are designated as casuals only for the purpose of avoiding the statutory benefits legally entitled to them. This is illegal and unfair.
These casuals are doing the lion portion of the work in the Airport. I know the position in Calicut Airport and I also know that the management is utilizing the services of 50-60 employees in a shift and there are altogether 200 employees designated as casuals. The workers are performing the works relating to loading and unloading of baggages, luggages, cargo, etc., internal cleaning of aircraft, catering, handling works, ground works, etc.
Sir, for the last several years, they have been fighting for permanency and regularization, but the management has been adamant in denying the legitimate rights of the workmen by different tactics. Even the daily wages are not given to them proper[r41] ly. The payment is only Rs. 190 daily. According to their company rules, the payment to casual workers should be equal to that of the regular employees in the Airlines. They are not given any other facility as over time wages, PF and gratuity.
I request that the hon. Minister of Civil Aviation may be pleased to interfere in the matter to regularize the casual employees and help them to get all facilities.