My 20-year stint with a big Calcutta-based MNC had its share of rewards and regrets. There was virtually no break in the running of the factory. Production continued round the clock in three shifts. On Sundays, the maintenance people would take charge, repairing and overhauling the plant for uninterrupted production during the week ahead. Naturally, such a pattern of work called for enforcing discipline, particularly during the night shift when the company’s top brass was either sleeping or dining in 5-stars.
To ensure that minor grievances of workmen were amicably redressed and quick action taken, a senior officer was deputed each night to work as the Night Manager. To compensate for his vigil, he was provided with a chauffeur-driven car, a not so liberal night allowance and a day off. He wielded considerable authority which, of course, vanished at day-break. Grievances ranged from the late arrival of tea or contaminated drinking water. Sometimes, there were more serious occurrences like accidents.
On one such occasion, I was working as the Night Manager. I quietly settled down in my plush air-conditioned room to finish the last few pages of an engrossing whodunit and then to write a letter or two. Suddenly, there was an uproar outside and a number of people were talking loudly. Before I could investigate, the door was flung open. The foreman pushed inside a dishevelled man, smelling of alcohol and clutching a half-consumed bottle in his hand. No doubt, for a number of workmen, it was a good break from the drudgery of the night-shift and they filled the room.
I immediately recognised Kristo, known for his addition to liquor. My first move was to make Kristo read the statutory warning printed on the label, ‘Consumption of liquor is injurious to health’. That he did falteringly and without batting an eyelid. Then I announced before the gathering that drinking during working hours was a major misdemeanour and could lead to summary dismissal.
{{/usCountry}}I immediately recognised Kristo, known for his addition to liquor. My first move was to make Kristo read the statutory warning printed on the label, ‘Consumption of liquor is injurious to health’. That he did falteringly and without batting an eyelid. Then I announced before the gathering that drinking during working hours was a major misdemeanour and could lead to summary dismissal.
{{/usCountry}}When all this had no visible effect on Kristo, I chose a different angle and lectured, “Kristo, if you stay sober, there is no limit to the progress you can make. One day you may become a supervisor. In fact, I would not be surprised if your hard work may even make you the foreman.”
Kristo had a hearty laugh, as if I had uttered something very stupid and replied, “But sir, when I have a few drops in me, I feel like the Managing Director.” Now how does one respond to that?