Production at MCL hit as workers stage 5-day stir over 100 % FDI

Angul: Production at all units of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) units in Angul district has been severely affected after three major workers’ unions launched a five-day strike yesterday opposing the Center’s decision on cent per cent foreign investment in coal mining.

The protesting workers bodies are- Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS) and Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS).

As part of the protest, the workers seized work and locked main gates of the coal units. Operation of all nine MCL units in the district has been affected due to the strike. Both production and transportation of coal at the units have been suspended, said sources.

The protesters alleged that with 100 % foreign direct investment (FDI) in coal mining, foreign companies will gain profits whereas the interest of workers will be neglected. They threatened that they will intensify  their stir in coming day if the Government does not revoke the decision.

Earlier on August 28, the Union Cabinet gave approval to 100 % FDI under the automatic route in mining, processing and sale of coal. With this, global companies can now own  and directly operate coal mines in the country.