PANAJI: Municipal employees at the Mormugao Municipal Council went on a one-day ‘tools-down/pen-down’ token strike today, protesting the non-fulfillment of long-standing demands despite repeated assurances from the civic administration.
The All Goa Municipal Association, which called the strike, highlighted several unresolved issues, including renewal of the association agreement from November 26, 2021, implementation of charter demands from January 27, 2022, and disbursement of MACP benefits to eligible staff. Other demands include immediate filling of vacant posts, release of uniform allowance, provision of protective gear, payment of tuition fees for employees and labourers, and bonuses for temporary workers.
Speaking during the strike, a worker said, “Since our agreement ended in 2021, three chairpersons have taken charge, and we have been given repeated assurances. We spoke to MMC Chairperson Girish Borkar yesterday, but only got excuses citing financial constraints. Today’s strike is a warning; if our demands aren’t met, a bigger strike may follow.” Another employee added, “We are running at a loss and want a solution before the council’s term ends.”
MMC Chief Officer Siddhivinayak Naik acknowledged that the demands have been pending since 2018 and described them as genuine. He said, “We will discuss the issues with the chairperson and then meet the union leaders to find a solution. They have threatened an indefinite strike if demands are unmet, but we will ensure it does not escalate. Ultimately, it is the council’s prerogative to make financial and policy decisions.”
