In a significant development, the Mathadi Act Defense Action Committee has issued a stern warning, declaring a symbolic shutdown and mass protest by Mathadi workers across Maharashtra on Thursday, December 14, 2023. The ultimatum comes in response to the controversial Maharashtra Mathadi and Security Guards Act Amendment Bill No. 34, which was introduced by the State Government during the Monsoon Session without prior consultation with relevant stakeholders.

The Mathadi Act Rescue Action Committee convened a crucial meeting at Mathadi Bhavan, Navi Mumbai, chaired by General Secretary Narendra Patil. Attendees included prominent leaders such as MLA Shashikant Shinde, President of Maharashtra State All Mathadi Transport and General Workers Union Datta Ghangale, and other key office bearers. The committee strongly opposed Bill No. 34, asserting that it poses a threat to the very existence of the Mathadi Act.

The contentious amendment bill, lacking provisions for discussion with the Mathadi Advisory Committee, has sparked widespread concern among trade unions. Critics argue that the proposed changes, particularly the omission of crucial sections such as 2 (11 and 12), 5, and 14 of the Mathadi Act, are deemed anti-labour and could undermine the rights and protections afforded to workers.

The Mathadi Act, credited as the only one of its kind in Asia, was established by the state government to safeguard the rights of hardworking labourers. However, the proposed amendments have raised alarms, prompting the Mathadi Act Rescue Action Committee to demand the withdrawal of Bill No. 34.

During the meeting, suggestions were put forth to the Joint Medical Committee by organizations representing both employers and workers. The demands include the immediate withdrawal of the amendment bill, the reconstitution of the Advisory Committee and Mathadi Boards, restructuring of the Mathadi Board with tripartite members, and the formation of a Joint Committee comprising government, employers, and labour representatives for effective implementation and dispute resolution.

MLA Annasaheb Patil emphasized the critical role of the Mathadi Act in protecting workers and urged the state government to consider the demands of the Mathadi Act Rescue Action Committee. Failure to do so, the committee warned, would lead to a symbolic strike and protest by all Mathadi workers in Maharashtra on December 14. The state government was explicitly cautioned that it would bear full responsibility for the consequences of such actions.