Mumbai:  A crucial meeting aimed at addressing the concerns of contract workers in the electricity sector ended without resolution, prompting the Maharashtra Electricity Contract Workers Union to escalate their protest. The union has announced a demonstration at the residence of Energy Minister Devendra Fadnavis on August 24.

On August 20, 2024, a chain hunger strike was held statewide by the Navi Mumbai Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, affiliated with the Maharashtra Electricity Contract Workers Union. Workers staged strong protests in front of various ministers' residences, demanding a wage increase and more sustainable employment practices similar to those implemented by the Haryana government.

In response to the growing unrest, State Upper Chief Secretary Energy Abha Shukla organized a meeting with the managing directors of three power companies and representatives of the Maharashtra Power Contract Workers Union. The meeting aimed to address the workers' grievances in light of the planned protest from Reshim Bagh to the Energy Minister’s residence.

Despite the discussions, the meeting failed to provide concrete assurances, leaving the workers dissatisfied. As a result, the Maharashtra Electricity Contract Workers Union, led by President Nilesh Kharat and General Secretary Sachin Mengale, is preparing for a significant demonstration. They have called on all contract workers across the state to join the protest in Nagpur on August 24.

The workers’ demands include a wage hike and the implementation of sustainable employment practices without intermediaries. The union has emphasized that past assurances have not been upheld, fueling their resolve to demand a written commitment from Minister Devendra Fadnavis.