Workers’ protest: Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh and contract workers’ unions protest at the MRPL cargo gate Thursday over the death of contract electrician Manish Karkada
The announcement came after 150 to 200 contract workers and union members protested outside the MRPL cargo gate at Kuthethur Thursday, demanding compensation for Karkada’s family, medical insurance for contract workers, stronger workplace safety measures and permanent employment for one member of the bereaved family. Rudolph VJ Noronha, chief general manager, corporate branding and corporate communications, stated that MRPL has decided to extend financial support of Rs 90 lakh to the family. In addition, the family will be eligible for benefits of approximately Rs 10 lakh under the group term life insurance and Rs 20 lakh under the workmen compensation policy, taking the overall financial support and insurance benefits to Rs 1.2 crore. The protest intensified around 1pm after union leaders gave the management 30 minutes to respond to their demands. Prashanth Poduval, group general manager, human resources, and Manoj Kumar, chief general manager, human resources, reached the gate around 1.25pm and addressed the protesters on behalf of the managing director.
He later announced the management’s decision on the compensation package and insurance-related demands.
Poduval expressed condolences on behalf of the company and said MRPL deeply regretted the incident and stood in solidarity with the bereaved family. Satyajit Surathkal, honorary president of MRPL Mazdoor Sangha, said the unions’ sustained efforts had ensured fair compensation for the family.
54 houses were damaged in Jokatte, Kalavaru and Bala, while eight places of worship were damaged in Jokatte and Kalavaru, according to the district administration.
MLC Ivan D’Souza visited the affected areas and said that about four acres of land must be acquired to free the residents from this danger. Meanwhile, residents of areas bordering MRPL are demanding immediate relocation following the blast.