Maruti workers may go on hunger strike

In commemoration of a year of their struggle, members of the Maruti Suzuki Workers’ Union have decided to stage a peaceful protest in solidarity with those sacked and jailed a year ago.

In commemoration of a year of their struggle, members of the Maruti Suzuki Workers’ Union have decided to stage a peaceful protest in solidarity with those sacked and jailed a year ago.

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“We will begin our indefinite peaceful demonstration and hunger strike at Tau Devilal Park, IMT Manesar, from July 18. This marks a year in jail without bail for 147 of our fellow workers, termination of 2,300 jobs, two-month jail for 10 workers and sympathisers,” Mahavir, a member of the provisional committee of the union, said at a press conference on Monday.

“We had applied for permission for staging the protest but the administration has not responded despite orders from the court. We are demanding the immediate release of our brethren from jail and reinstation of those fired. We will begin with a symbolic hunger strike, but might sit on a fast-unto-death if our demands are not met,” said Mahavir.

“All the unions of Gurgaon as well as some students and faculty members of Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi have assured us of their support. Prashant Bhushan and Arundhati Roy are also expected to join our struggle,” informed Mahavir.

Shekhar Vidyarthi said the dismissed employees of Maruti may also use the ground for their demonstration scheduled for July 18, provided they ensure a peaceful protest and seek the district administration’s nod. The district administration had on July 11 prohibited demonstration along NH 8 and at IMT Manesar to prevent clashes between the workers and villagers.