Previous Unclassified Insertions

[30.12.2009]MEETING WITH SECRETARY, DOT: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU along with Coms. K.R.Yadav, Vice – President and S.C. Bhattacharjee, Treasurer met Shri. P.J. Thomas, Secretary,  DOT today, 30^th December 2009 and discussed the issues of approval of Promotion policy, 50% IDA merger for BSNL Pensioners, Pension Revision, Removal of anomaly for pensioners retired during October 2000 to July 2001 and also the necessity  of immediate purchase order for 93 million lines and grant of Navaratna /Maharatna status to BSNL.

The Secretary, DOT gave a patient hearing and assured to  take up the issues for settlement.

BSNLEU leaders met Additional Secretary, Shri.Subhodh Kumar also and discussed the issues.

[30.12.2009]Meeting with CMD BSNL:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU, met Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, BSNL on 29^th December, 2009 and discussed about the wage revision. General Secretary impressed upon the CMD for increase of the span as also continuation of the uniform and connected advances / allowances which the management wanted to abolish.

CMD, BSNL assured to look in to the matter in a positive way.

Meeting with ED (NB):- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU, met Shri S.M. Talwar, Executive Director (NB) and discussed the issue of 2 restricted holidays for the industrial staff. ED (NB) agreed to consider the matter favourably. 

GS also brought to the notice of the ED (NB) about the practice of ordering towers from private parties by some circles instead of ordering to Telecom Factories. ED (NB) stated that he has issued suitable instructions in the matter.

[23.12.2009] BSNLEU Meets CMD: - Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS and P. Asoka Babu, AGS, BSNLEU met Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, BSNL on 22.12.2009 and briefed about the wage negotiation and requested that the span of the pay scales should be increased to avoid stagnation and to ensure 30% fitment and promotion to all. CMD patiently heard and assured that he will bring the above matter to the notice of the Wage Committee.

Meeting with Director (HRD) and ED (Finance):- CHQ leaders also met Shri Gopal Das, Director (HRD) and Shri S.R. Kapoor, ED (Finance) who is also the Chairman Wage Committee and demanded that the span of pay scales be increased to ensure 30% fitment and promotion and also to avoid stagnation.

Anomaly Agreement: - General Secretary Com. V.A.N.Namboodiri and AGS Com. P. Asoka Babu met DGM (Estt.) Shri P.K. Misra and discussed about early approval of anomaly committee agreement. He assured to submit the same for approval of Management Committee.

Joint Forum Meets: - Joint Forum of BSNL Associations/Unions of Executives and Non-Executives met on 17^th December 2009 under the Chairmanship of Com. G.L. Jogi, GS, SNEA. Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, Convener presented the details of agenda. After discussion it was decided to meet CMD BSNL, Secretary DoT, Communication Minister on the issues of ITS absorption, pension revision on IDA scales, developmental issues especially tender for 93 million mobile lines etc.

[30.11.2009]Promotion Policy:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS and Com. P. Asokababu, AGS met the Joint Secretary (T), DoT Shri J.S. Deepak today (30.11.2009) and requested for intervention for early approval of the Promotion Policy (9200-250-13200 payscale). Shri J.S. Deepak assured necessary intervention for settling the issue.

[19.11.2009]Pay Anomaly Committee Meeting held on 18.11.2009: Shri P.K. Mishra DGM(ESH) presided. Com. V.A.N. Naamboodiri, GS and Com. P. Asokababu, AGS, BSNLEU represented staff side. The method of settling the Pay Anomalies was discussed in detail. Next meeting will be held on 25.11.2009.

[30.10.2009]Pay Anomaly Committee meeting:- The Pay Anomaly Committee meeting was held on 30-10-2009. Com V.A.N.Namboodiri GS and Com P.Asokababu AGS BSNLEU participated from the Staff side.

The necessity to form another Committee arose since the DoT rejected the agreement of the earlier Anomaly Committee. It stated that Revised Pay Rules and option for pay fixation from the date of next increment falling after 1-10-2000 for those promoted before 1-10-2000 are not applicable for settling the anomaly cases. As such the management stated that it is almost impossible to settle the issues. Management also pointed out that neither in MTNL nor for executives in BSNL it self such anomalies/aberrations could be settled.

The staff side pointed out that at the time of conversion of CDA pay scales to IDA pay scales itself it was assured by the management that these anomalies/aberrations will be sympathetically considered and settled. In the wage revision order (CDA to IDA) also  it was mentioned. As such the management has to take suitable decision for early settlement.

After much discussion the official side was prepared to consider the issue of granting personal pay to the extent of the difference to the seniors after promotion of the junior to the higher grade. It will also be considered whether the senior in the higher grade can be given personal pay to the extent of difference between senior in the higher grade and junior in the lower grade.

The next meeting will be held after two weeks.

[30.10.2009]Meeting of United Forum:- The meeting of United Forum held on 29^th October, 2009 at National Council room discussed reservation / relaxation in promotion policy and entrusted a committee consisting Coms. B.R. Jakhatia, V. Subburaman, P. Asokababu and Babu Singh to prepare a document in full justification of our claim to be put before management.

The meeting also decided to demand the management to hold the meeting of Wage Negotiation Committee urgently and settle wage revision.

[28.10.2009]Observe National Protest Day on 28^th October, 2009:- As already intimated, Circle / District Secretaries are called to observe National Protest Day today, 28.10.2009 organising demonstration / rally etc. jointly with other trade unions against price rise, disinvestment etc. as called by the National Trade Unions viz – AITUC, CITU, INTUC, BMS etc.

[26.10.2009]Meeting with CMD: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU along with Coms. P. Asoka Babu, AGS, K.R. Yadav, Vice-President and Animesh Mitra, Circle Secretary, West Bengal met Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD on 26^th October, 2009 and discussed the following issues. 

1. Regularisation of Casual labourer.
2. Wages for Casual & Contract Workers.
3. Development of Services.

[26.10.2009]Telecom Factories issues discussed with BSNL Management:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU along with Com. S.D. Chaudhary, All India Vice-President met Shri S.P. Talwar, Executive Director (NB) and discussed the following issues. Shri R.P. Nigam, GM (TF) was also present. 

1. Restructure of TF Cadres
2. Grant of 2 Restricted Holidays to Industrial Workers ending discrimination
3. Pay scale of Chemists & Planners
4. Production & Marketing of Tower, Sim Card etc.

Shri Talwar, Executive Director assured sympathetic consideration of the issues raised.

Meeting with BCG: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU along with Coms. P. Asoka Babu, AGS, K.R. Yadav, Vice-President and Animesh Mitra, Circle Secretary, West Bengal met the Boston Consultancy Group (BCG) as per their invitation. The BCG Group along with Smt. Madhu Arora, GM, (Restrg). explained the projects being implemented like Kuber, Shikhar, Udam etc. We gave our opinions / Suggestions.

[19.10.2009]National Co-ordination Committee of Pensioners' Associations (NCCPA - Secretary General Com. S.K. Vyas) called for Dharna at SSA Offices of BSNL throughout the country from 27^th to 29^th October, 2009 demanding 50% IDA Merger, Revision of Pension of BSNL Retirees etc. BSNLEU (CHQ) calls upon all Circle, District and Branch Secretaries to extend all help, support and solidarity and to participate in the programme. BSNLEU is persuing consistently to settle the issues.                               V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU.

[12.10.2009]Presidential orders in respect of TSMs regularized after 01.10.2000 issued:- After the issue was taken by BSNLEU in the DoT-BSNL-BSNLEU Committee the Presidential orders for all circles other than mentioned below have been approved by DoT and sent to BSNL. BSNL has forwarded the same to the circles for issues of orders. 

The details from the following circles are yet to be received by BSNL to forward to DoT: (1) Bihar  (2) NE-II (3) TF Mumbai (4) WTP (5) WTR

[12.10.2009]Statement Regarding Pending Disciplinary cases of Group ‘C’ & D officials (unabsorbed in BSNL)

Year          Received cases by DoT        Settled   Unsettled

2007                      114                                 113            1

2008                      110                                  101           9

2009                        34                                    25           9

Total                      258                                 239          19   

                                                          [Supplied by DoT]

[10.10.2009]All India Convention of DoT & BSNL Pensioners at New Delhi on 21.10.2009:- All arrangements are being made for the successful convention. Com. M.K. Pandhe, President, CITU will inaugurate the convention. Shri P.J. Thomas, Secretary, DoT and Smt. Vijayalakshmi K. Gupta, Member (Finance), DoT have been invited to address the convention. Com. S.K.Vyas, Secretary General, National Co-ordination Committee of Central Pensioners' Association will greet the Convention.

[09.10.2009]GS BSNLEU meets Member (Finance), DoT:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met Shri Vijayalakshmi K. Gupta, Member (Finance) DoT on 09.10.2009 and discussed the issue of approval of the Rs.9200 payscale newly introduced in the Promotional Policy. Member (Finance), DoT assured that the approval will be given early, without any delay.

[07.10.2009]Joint Forum Meeting on 7^th October 2009:- The meeting of the executive and non-executive Associations / Unions held on 7^th October, 2009 at National Council Room, Eastern Court, New Delhi after thorough discussion, took the following decisions:

1. Demand the management to ensure implementation of the assurance given to the Joint Forum that the ITS absorption will be finalized before December 2009.
2. Demand the DOT to rescind the orders issued regarding deputation of Account Officers from DOT.
3. Meet the CMD to find out about the various reports coming in the press regarding outsourcing, forming of another company from BSNL, sharing of infrastructure etc. since no official statement has come so far. After meeting the CMD, Joint Forum will meet and plan our strategy and action programme.
4. Consult BCG report with the Unions before implementing the same.

 Next meeting of the JF will be held after meeting CMD.

[07.10.2009]Meeting with Director (HRD):- Com. V.A.N.Namboodiri, GS, BSNLEU along with Coms. R.S.Chauhan, Org. Secretary and Lalan Sah (corporate office) met Shri Gopal Das, Director(HRD) and discussed the following issues:

1. Wage Revision: The Union insisted that the wage revision be finalized early. Director (HRD) stated that the issue be discussed in the meeting on 13^th October 2009.
2. Promotion Policy: Director (HRD) agreed to contact with DOT for the early clearance of the 9200- pay scale for which it was referred to DOT. The Policy will be implemented as soon as it is received back.

3.   Director (HRD) assured for holding the National Council early.

[06.10.2009]SSA March and Bharat Sanchar Bhawan March: - Mysore Central Executive Committee has decided to organize SSA March and Bharat Sanchar Bhawan March, if the Wage Revision, Promotion Policy etc. are not settled with out further delay. Meet each and every worker, explain the unhelpful attitude of management and prepare for organizing the above programmes.

[06.10.2009] GS Meets Secretary, DoT: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met the newly appointed Chairman, Telecom Commission & Secretary, DoT, Shri P.J. Thomas on 5^th October, 2009 and welcomed and greeted him. It was a curtsey call.

[22.09.2009]Promotion Policy - Discussion with DOT:-  Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri,General Secretary,BSNLEU and Com.P.Abhimanyu,  Dy. General Secretary met DDG (Estt) Shri.A.K. Das and discussed about the approval of 9200/- pay scale by DOT. DDG (Estt) stated that the matter has been referred to DOT  Finance for early approval.

[19.09.2009]Bonus 2009 – one more arbitrary decision of BSNL management:- BSNL has issued order for this year’s bonus (PLI). Non-executives are paid only Rs. 3500/-.  This is totally unacceptable to us and we condemn this arbitrary decision. As per BSNL’s MOU rating for this year, as per the bonus formula, Non-Executives are eligible for minimum bonus of Rs. 7000/-. This was conveyed to the CMD, BSNL and Director (HR), in categorical terms by BSNLEU and the United Forum, in the meeting held on    15-09-2009. Country wide Dharnas/demonstrations were also conducted by the United Forum on 17-09-2009. Despite all these, BSNL Board has arbitrarily decided to pay a paltry amount as bonus. Company’s reduced profit is not an excuse for denial of eligible bonus. Bonus formula is the only criteria, according to which Non-Executives are eligible for minimum bonus of Rs. 7000/-. In the case of Interim Relief, we compelled the management to modify it’s arbitrary order. Similarly, in the case of bonus also, BSNLEU and United Forum will get the arbitrary order modified.   

[08.10.2009]DoT Committee on 09.10.2009 :- The committee formed by Secretary, DoT to discuss issues taken up by BSNL Employees Union will be held on 9^th October, 2009. The meeting will be chaired by Joint Secretary (T), DoT and will be attended by DDGs from DoT, GM (SR), BSNL and General Secretary, BSNLEU.

Hold demonstrations on 22-09-2009 (Tuesday), to protest against the arbitrary order of the BSNL  management, violating the “PLI formula”,  and sanctioning less bonus. This is the call of the United Forum of BSNL unions.  Conduct the programme effectively by mobilising the workers fully.

[18.09.2009] Bonus : - CHQ congratulates all comrades for effectively conducting Dharna / demonstrations yesterday the 17-09-2009, at a very short notice, demanding minimum bonus of Rs.7000 for all Non- Executives. So far no order  is issued on bonus. It is understood that the Board of Directors have taken some decision on 15-09-2009 itself. CHQ is taking efforts for the issuing of the order without further delay.

[16.09.2009]Dharna / demonstration on bonus issue:- Since our demand on bonus issue is not accepted by the BSNL management, United Forum calls upon, the employees to conduct dharna / demonstrations on 17.09.2009, at SSA levels. Organize effectively and make the programme a big success.

[15.09.2009]United Forum meets CMD, BSNL and Director (HRD) on Bonus issue:- As per decision of yesterday’s meeting of associations and unions of Executives and Non-Executives, meetings were held both with Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, BSNL and Shri Gopal Das, Director (HRD) to-day, 15^th September, 2009 on Bonus issue. 

The unions demanded that the minimum bonus of Rs.7000/- to Rs.10,000/- be paid to the non-executives as paid during the last year. The CMD stated that since the profit has gone down only Rs.3500/- can be paid to non-executives and Rs.5000/- to executives. The CMD requested the unions to voluntarily forego Bonus this year in view of the company’s adverse financial positions. The unions protested and reiterated their demand for full bonus. NFTE, FNTO & BSNLWRU who were party to yesterday’s decision did not attend the meeting, despite they had agreed to come.

[15.09.2009]BSNL Associations & Unions Demand Full Bonus:- The meeting of the Associations / Unions of Executives and Non-executives held on 14.09.2009 at National Council Office, New Delhi, presided by Com. A.A. Khan (SNEA) strongly protested against the proposal of BSNL management to reduce this year Bonus to Rs.5000/- for executives and Rs.3500/- to non-executives. Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS, BSNLEU explained the issue in detail. 

After through discussion it was decided to meet the CMD BSNL on 15.09.2009 and convey our protest as also to demand for Bonus as last year.

[15.09.2009]National Convention of Workers held on 14^th September, 2009 adopts action programmes on the burning issues facing working people:- The Historic National Convention of workers under the auspices of AITUC, BMS, CITU, HMS, INTUC, AIUTUC, TUCC, AICCTU and UTUC was held at Mavalankar Hall on 14^th September, 2009. About 600 delegates from various unions participated. BSNLEU was represented by Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS and P. Abhimanyu, Dy. GS. Coms. M.K. Pandhe (CITU) Sanjeeva Reddy (INTUC) Gurudas Das Gupta (AITUC) Umraomal Purohit (HMS) and other leaders addressed.

The convention adopted a resolution against rising prices, job loss, violation of labour laws and Disinvestment of PSUs. It also demanded the government to ensure good wages and social security measures to unorganized workers.

The convention decided the following programme in support of the demands:

1. Meet the Prime Minster by all Central TU leaders.

2. Hold State level conventions.

3. Observe All India Protest Day on 28^th October, 2009.      

[11.09.2009]Red salutes to the fighting pilots:- The pilots of Jet Airways have gone on a “leave en mass” agitation. Most of the Jet Airways pilots have joined this struggle, as a result of which the air services throughout the country are thrown out of gears. The pilots are not fighting for any economic demands, but for the right to start a union. Just because the Jet Airways pilots started a union called “National Aviators Guild”, the management sacked four pilots. It is a matter of shame that this can happen in a democratic country like ours. BSNLEU expresses it’s solidarity with the striking pilots and requests the government to find an amicable solution to the problem.

[09.09.2009]Casual labour wages:– The issue of fixation of casual labour wages was discussed with management. We wanted that the wages be calculated on the basis of the minimum of the wage of Regular Mazdoor. Management agreed to consider this favourably. The case is being perused by CHQ.

[04.09.2009]Circle Secretary & Circle Executive of BSNLEU, Corporate Office, New Delhi derecognised for anti-union activities including opposing and non-participation in the strike.

[03.09.2009]STRIKE PARTICIPATION - Management seeks explanation – draft of reply to be given :- Worried at the large participation in the 48 hours strike, BSNL management has instructed field level officers to get explanation from workers for participating in the strike. It is an unnecessary provocation from the management. However since the explanations are called for, the employees can give the following reply: 

“I have participated in the 48 hours strike on 19-20 August, 2009 as per the call of the United Forum of BSNL Unions / BSNL Employees Union, the recognized and representative union in BSNL demanding early wage revision. The union had served strike notice to management as per required provisions of Trade Union rules.”  We are taking up the issue with management also so that the same could be amicably settled.

[03.09.2009]Anomaly Committee meeting held on 1^st September 2009: - The first meeting of the Anomaly Committee was held on 01.09.2009. The official side informed that as per DoT’s orders on the subject, now the anomalies/ aberrations can be settled by BSNL as per DPE guidelines and Government orders. Accordingly it was decided in the committee to further explore and examine the DPE guidelines/DPE orders/Government orders that will enable settlement of the anomalies/ aberrations. The staff side in the Committee was represented by Comrades V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary and P. Ashokababu, AGS, BSNLEU. 

[03.09.2009]Bonus – Discussion with Management:- CHQ demanded for early payment of Bonus since festivals start by the third week of September 2009. Director (HRD) held a meeting with BSNLEU on 1^st September 2009 and proposed to pay Rs. 3500/- for non-executive and Rs. 5000/-  for executives – as Bonus for 2008-2009 – and requested to agree for the proposal. He stated that the profit this year is only Rs.574 crores.  We did not agree and strongly demanded for same quantum of Bonus as paid last year i.e. Rs. 7000/- to Rs. 10,000/-. In case the management is not accepting our demand, struggle will became inevitable. Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, K.R. Yadav, Vice President and P. Asokababu, AGS participated in the meeting.

[24.08.2009] Qualifying service for JTO Examination reduced: - As agreed in the National Council meeting, the Management Committee has approved for reducing qualifying service for appearing in JTO examination from ten to seven years. A long pending demand has now been accepted. BSNLEU has requested the management for conducting the examination early as per the reduced qualifying service.

[19.08.2009]48 Hours Strike started. Complete strike in most centres. Even members of NFTE-FNTO in strike in many places. Hearty Congratulation ! Reports of massive participation in 48 hours strike have starting pouring to CHQ. Assam, NE-I, NE-II, A&N Islands have already reported complete strike. Telecom Factory Richai, except few NFTE office bearers all are on strike. In West Bengal & Kolkata, almost all offices are closed without anybody to attend office. Circle Secretary T. Nadu reports enthusiastic participation in strike. In Kerala Circle, strike is almost complete as usual. Karnataka Circle reports massive participation in strike.  Workers are demonstrating in front of offices in all centres. More reports are coming.  Media and dailies have given wide publicity in the strike.  Continue with the struggle. CHQ Greet you all. 

As required by the new Chairman, the staff side presented their demands in detail. Management did not commit anything on the demands. Date of next meeting will be intimated by the management. CHQ calls upon all workers to participate in the 19-20 August, 2009 strike to achieve our justified demands. <<Click here for details>>

[14.08.2009]NFTE’s Sthala Kala Vibhrama (Utter Confusion):- NFTE has become so desperate after its dismal defeat in the IV membership verification that it has lost all senses just like Duryodhana at the magnificent palace of Yudhishtira who could not identify land from water, north from south and so on and fell down in the pond. NFTE’s report on our massive dharna in Corporate Office and all over India on 11.08.2009 is part of this Sthala Kala Vibhrama. We sympathise in their pathetic condition.

[14.08.2009] BSNLEU Marches Ahead: - (1)   Com. Purushotham Gedam, Circle Secretary, reports that 55 NFTE members joined BSNLEU at Ratnagiri. (2)    Com. B.R. Bishnoi, District Secretary, Jodhpur intimates that 61 NFTE members joined BSNLEU at Jodhpur.  (3)    65 members from NFTE joined in our union in Karimnagar Dist. in Andhra Pradesh Circle, Reports Com. J. Sampath Rao, Circle Secretary.    CHQ Welcomes all new members to BSNLEU !

[11.08.2009]Management agrees to reduce qualifying service for promotion to JTO from 10 to 7 years:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU along with Coms. P. Asokababu, AGS, K.R. Yadav, Vice-President and SNATTA leaders Coms. Dheeraj Chaudhary, Dharmendra Verma and Manish and discussed about reducing the qualifying service for JTO. Both CMD & Director (HRD) agreed to reduce the qualifying service from 10 years. The matter will be put to the Managing Committee for approval at the earliest.

[07.08.2009]Meeting with Member (Finance) on Pension issues:- Com.V.A.N.Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met Shri R. Ashok, Member (Finance), DOT on 6^th August and discussed the following issues:

(1) 50% IDA Merger for BSNL retired employees: - Com. Namboodiri pointed out the undue delay in granting 50% IDA merger to BSNL Pensioners, which has already been given to the Government pensioners (50% CDA) as also to the regular BSNL employees. After detailed discussion, Member (F) told that the file has come back from the Pension and Pensioners Welfare Dept. and the DOT is examining certain legal aspects. He agreed to process the issue as early as possible. GS BSNLEU once again pressed for an early settlement.

(2) Application of Pension related benefits to BSNL retirees as per Govt. Orders on VI CPC recommendations: - General Secretary, BSNLEU pointed out after issuing the orders, it has been kept in abeyance by another order. This may reissued without further delay. Member (F) agreed to issue the orders without further delay.

(3) Restoration of pension reduced due to calculation of 10 months average pay:- GS BSNLEU pointed out the loss caused due to the calculation of last 10 months average pay for the officials who retired immediately after the corporatisation. Member (Finance) stated that is being examined and an early decision will be taken.

[06.08.2009]Support & Solidarity to Bank Employees Strike:- BSNL Employees Union extends its full support and solidarity to the two days strike (6-7 August, 2009) of the Bank Employees under the platform of United Forum of Bank Unions for immediate Wage Revision with Pension etc. One after another all PSU employees are on war path on wage revision issue.

BSNL Employees under the leadership of United Forum will go on strike on 19^th & 20^th August. Make it a complete success.

[06.08.2009]Welcome Comrades! :- (1) Com. Yogesh Sharma, District Secretary, BSNLEU, Satna intimates that 11 members of NFTE/FNTO have joined BSNLEU from July, 2009. Congratulations to all of you, Comrades !

(2) Com. A. Surender Reddy, District Secretary, BSNLEU, Warangal have informed CHQ that 'impressed with our unions achievements, 122 officials inspired and joined BSNLEU during the month of July, 2009'.   Welcome to BSNLEU to all of you.

[06.08.2009]Remembering the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki: - August 6 – It is on this day 64 years earlier (in 1945) that the United States dropped the Atom Bomb on the city of Hiroshima in Japan, killing thousands of people and maiming for life more than that number. The entire city was burnt. Thousands of people are still suffering the radiation. After 3 days, on 9th August 1945 the US dropped another and more powerful bomb in Nagasaki with more destruction and loss of lives. Capitalism and Imperialism have no value for the human lives and will resort to any cruelty and atrocity. 

Along with the crores of peace loving people in the world, we also pay homage to those who died and who are still suffering.

No More Hiroshima, No More Nagasaki

[05.08.2009]One increment granted to those BCR officials who did not get BCR 10% was not counted for pension. BSNLEU took up the case with DoT in the joint committee and demanded that pension should be given. Now DoT has agreed and orders have been issued granting pension for that increment.   A very good achievement.

[04.08.2009]Ignore Rumours:- After the utter defeat in the IV Verification, certain unions have become panicky. It has become a habit with them to spread rumours so that even if they cannot convince the workers, they can at least confuse them. It is the same strategy they used in the membership verification, but the workers ignored all those rumours and defeated them. This is what is going to happen again. Ignore those rumours with the contempt it deserve.

[04.08.2009]48 hours  Strike on 19^th and 20^th August 2009:- The strike notice has been given on 31st July to the management. The BSNL workers are preparing for the strike. We have written to all non-executive unions to participate in the strike on the vital issues of the workers. We hope that they will consider our letter and join the mainstream.

The Wage Revision, Promotions, Anomaly, Casual /Contract labour wages, Issues of BSNL Pensioners etc. are the most important issues at present. It will be clearly seen now who stand with the workers issues and who support the management. Workers issues are more important than the union rivalries. In the coal sector all the workers stood together, fought and got 52% fitment benefit during the last 10 years from 1997. Don’t  we want the higher fitment and five years agreement? Certainly we want.  All the demands raised by are genuine and we will have to fight for that. Let us be prepared for a very successful strike.

[31.07.2009]Hearty Congratulations & Thanks! :- BSNLEU and United Forum congratulates and thanks all workers and leaders all over the country for the massive demonstrations held today (31.07.2009) as per the call of United Forum on the demands of Wage Revision, Promotion Policy, Anomaly etc. 

The strike notice was served on the CMD BSNL after a successful demonstration in front of Bharat Sanchar Bhawan, Delhi, which was addressed by Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU & Convenor United Forum, V. Subburaman, General Secretary, TEPU, Suresh Kumar, General Secretary, BSNL MS, B.R. Jakhatia, General Secretary, SEWA BSNL, Hari Singh, General Secretary, BTU BSNL, D.P. Patwa, Dy. General Secretary, AIBCTES and K.R. Yadav. 

[31.07.2009]United Forum meets Communications Minister:- United Forum leaders led by Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, Convenor, met Thiru A. Raja, Communication Minister on 30^th July, 2009 and congratulated him on his second term as Communications Minister. The following issues were discussed:

1.      Development and growth of BSNL:-  Union leaders pointed out the declining position of market share of BSNL and the problems in tender process which resulted in lack of mobile lines for providing connections to public. Minister stated that necessary action is to be taken by management.

2.      50% IDA merger for retired BSNL employees:- Unions pointed out the injustice done to the Pensioners by not issuing orders granting 50% IDA merger to BSNL retired employees. They also pointed out about the need for extending the orders on benefits of Central Govt. Pensioners to BSNL Pensioners also. Minister agreed to do the needful in the matter.

3.      Declaring 14^th April, Birthday of Dr. Ambedkar, as Holiday:- The Minister agreed to take up the matter with government.

[30.07.2009]143 members desert NFTE and FNTO and join BSNLEU in Jharkhand:- 80 members have deserted NFTE & FNTO and have joined BSNLEU at Ranchi. Similarly, Com. Raj Narayan Singh Yadav, District President, NFTE-BSNL along with 63 members of NFTE & FNTO have joined BSNLEU at Jamshedpur. CHQ greets and welcomes the Comrades who have chosen the right path. CHQ also congratulates our leaders of Ranchi, Jamshedpur District Unions as well as Jharkhand Circle Union.

[30.07.2009]1946 P&T Strike :- CHQ BSNLEU remembers the valiant P&T Workers who went on Indefinite strike in July 1946 against the British Imperialism. Thousands of workers and common people organised rallies in Madras and Kolkatta in support of the strike. All the political parties supported and congratulated the P&T workers for their heroic strike action.

[27.07.2009]BSNL Sports & Cultural meeting held on 27.07.2009 has taken the following decisions: 

1. Kit allowance increased from Rs.1500 to Rs.2000 for All India
2. Kit allowance increased from Rs.2000 to Rs.2500 for Nationals
3. Sanchar krida awards increased from Rs.10000 to Rs.15000
4. Upto silver medal in national, cash awards are allowed for coaches

                                            [Report from Com. John Verghese, Member Sports & Cultural Board]

[24.07.2009]Central Executive Committee at Mysore:- CEC Meeting of BSNL Employees Union will be held at Mysore from 27^th to 29^th August. Coms. Mohd. Amin, General Secretary, CITU, Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD BSNL and Shri Gopal Das, Director (HRD) and other important personalities will address.

Com. C.K. Gundanna, Circle Secretary, Karnataka and Convenor, Reception Committee, Mysore with other Comrades are putting in best efforts for making all arrangements for the Central Executive Committee.

[22.07.2009]Wage Revision: General Secretary, BSNLEU met CMD, BSNL on 22.07.2009 and requested for appointment of Chairman, Wage Negotiation Committee and demanded early settlement on pay revision. Shri S.R. Kapoor, Executive Director (Finance), is appointed as Chairman, Wage Negotiation Committee.

[18.07.2009] 40^th Anniversary Banks Nationalisation :- 40 year back 19^th July 1969 14 Indian Private Banks nationalised which were suffering loss also lack of accountability and satisfactory service. They include Indian Bank, Canara Bank, Punjab National Bank, Syndicate Bank etc.  All these Banks are strong and efficient and has contributed much to the wealth of the Nation. They saved the country to a high extent as bulwarks against the drastic global recession.

 The present Government is trying to destabilize these PSUs by disinvestment, merger etc.  We convey our greetings on the 40^th Anniversary of Nationalisation and fully supports their struggle against Disinvestment and privatisation.

[21.07.2009] CENTRAL TRADE UNIONS OPPOSE DISINVESTMENT: - All Central Trade Unions, including INTUC, have strongly opposed the disinvestment programmes of the Central Government. A Joint Statement has been issued signed by AITUC, CITU, HMS, INTUC, AICCTU etc. opposing the anti-worker policy of the Government like price rise, job losses, disinvestment, violation of basic labour laws etc.

A National Convention will be held in New Delhi on the 14^th September 2009 to chalk out common future programmes. BSNLEU welcomes this new development. See Joint Statement <<click here>>

[21.07.2009]REMEMBERING TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS: - July 18^th 2009 is the 175^th anniversary of the trial and deportation of the Tolpuddle Martyrs from England to Australia by the British Government in 1834. The six Tolpuddle Martyrs - George and James Loveless, Thomas and John Standfield, James Brine and James Hammet - are considered as the founders of the trade union movement. They were agricultural workers who revolted against the government's repression.

We pay homage to these great heroes who have opened anew path of revolt and struggle against repression and tyranny.

[17.07.2009] Promotion Policy:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri met Shri Gopal Das, Director (HRD) and demanded that since DoT has already approved the Promotion Policy, orders be issued with out further delay. Director (HRD) stated that the file has not reached him but he will take necessary action as early as possible.

Joint Forum Meets:- A meeting of Joint Forum of BSNL Association / Union of Executives and Non-Executives was held on 16.07.2009 at National Council staff side room under the chairmanship of Com. V. Subburaman, General Secretary, TEPU. Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, Convenor, Joint Forum,  reported about the action taken on the decisions of the last meeting. The meeting decided to organize the “Anti-Disinvestment Day” on 22.07.2009 in a very effective manner.

The Joint Forum met again after meeting the CMD BSNL. It reiterated its decision to implement the “Anti Disinvestment Day” with maximum participation.

NFTE will join Programme on 22.07.2009:- NFTE in its website has published its decision to participate in the “Anti-Disinvestment Day” programme called by CPSTU. Joint Forum will only be happy to organize the same jointly.

[17.07.2009] Simple Commonsense, Comrade:- Promotion Policy – NFTE Comments : - NFTE in its website has commented that while in the website of BSNLEU it is stated that the Promotion Policy is approved by DoT but in Telecrusader July, 2009 it is stated that General Secretary met Secretary, DoT and demanded for approval of Promotion Policy. 

It is simple commonsense, Comrade.  The website information is latest while the Telecrusader information is earlier one. The website news was dated 02.07.2009, while the Telecrusader was given for printing on 30.06.2009. NFTE certainly should understand these simple things as they also are publishing journals and have got website.

[16.07.2009] Who are the Agents of Management?

A perusal of the following will clearly reveal who are the agents of management.

1. Who agreed for Ban on creation of posts in 1984/85? - NFTE – FNTO

2. Who agreed to reduce 1,50,000 vacancies in the name of restructure of cadres? - NFTE – FNTO

3. Who agreed to surrender supervisory posts for getting BCR Promotion? – NFTE – FNTO

4. Who surrendered FR 22(i)(a)(i) in 1999 for promotions? - NFTE – FNTO

5. Who agreed for corporatisation which has resulted in many difficulties for workers? - NFTE – FNTO

6. Who agreed for VRS for 50,000 BSNL Workers in National Council? - NFTE – FNTO

7. Who gave such memorandum to V CPC which resulted in reduced pay scales for Telecom Cadres compared to Postal & other CGES? - NFTE – FNTO

8. Who demanded Rs.1000/- extra only to BSNL Workers on Conversion from DoT to BSNL? - NFTE-FNTO

9. Who are now getting signatures from employees for accepting whatever is offered by management, even when it is less than justified? - NFTE – FNTO

After BSNLEU got recognition, the VRS was got dropped. FR 22(i)(a)(i) has been restored in New Promotion Policy. Promotion Policy has been signed reducing the decades old discrimination between executives and non-executives.

The workers understand all these. And that is why despite the fact that NFTE & FNTO which both together got about 1,45,000 votes in the first verification have been reduced to 95,000 in the IV Verification and BSNLEU which got 90,000 in the first verification got 1,24,000 in the IV Verification defeating the formers alliance by more than 28,000 votes.

[15.07.2009] HOW FUNNY ! :- FNTO has put in its website a form asking workers to sign and submit it to management with regard to wage revision. In the letter it is stated that “Kindly award pay scales as recommended by second pay review committee.” Second Pay Review Committee was appointed to recommend wage revision for executives only and it had no connection with the pay revision non-executives and not recommended any pay scales for non-executives. But interestingly FNTO is asking the workers to request the management to award pay scales recommended by the Committee !     Funny Indeed !

[15.07.2009]Due to Mismanagement BSNL had to pay Rs.1000 crore as extra interest  - CAG Report:- In what highlights mismanagement in government-run companies, BSNL failed to return a government loan of Rs. 7,500 crore when it had a disposable reserve of more than Rs. 18,000 crore. This resulted in the company paying an interest of over Rs. 1,000 crore. The country's biggest telecom company parked its surplus funds in banks to earn an interest of 6% - 7% when it was already paying interest of 14.5% for the loan."BSNL failed to return government loan of Rs. 7,500 crore inspite of having adequate cash reserves of Rs. 18,829 crore as of March 2005 parked in bank deposits with average rate of return of 6.19% to 7.38% per annum against the rate of interest of 14.50% for the loan," a CAG report on BSNL tabled in Parliament on Monday said."This imprudent financial management resulted in excess expenditure of Rs. 1,089 crore on interest payment,” it added.                               [Source: The Times of India, dated 14.07.2009]

 [15.07.2009]BSNL, MTNL lose Rs 1,547 cr due to financial disorder – CAG Report:- Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has informed the Parliament on Monday that BSNL and MTNL lost Rs. 1,547.47 crore due to careless financial management and wasteful expenditure during the last financial year. CAG has alleged that BSNL has lost Rs.355.66 crore in loss or non-recovery or non-short billing. The report also brought out alleged financial mismanagement, wasteful expenditure and excess payment aggregating Rs.1,164.38 crore by BSNL.                                    [Source: The Economic Times, dated 14.07.2009]

[10.07.2009] Utter Confusion ! They don’t know what they demand:- It is observed at FNTO (CHQ) website that they demanded to BSNL Management: “IDA Pay Scales of the non-executives w.e.f. 01.01.2007 in the same line and fixation formula adopted for executives without any periodicity.” This actually means (apart from periodicity), they don’t want benefit of merger of 50% IDA, which has already been approved by DPE but not yet implemented for BSNL executives. Moreover, they want that non-executives pay scales be constructed in relation to present E-1 minimum pay of Rs.16,400/-, since proposed E-1 A pay scale has not yet been granted. THEY MAY INSIST ON LOWER BENEFIT FOR NON-EXECUTIVES, BUT BSNLEU CAN’T COMPROMISE ON LONG TERM INTEREST OF THE EMPLOYEES. In their memorandum supposed to be signed by employees, they demanded: “Kindly award pay scales as recommended by Second Pay Review Committee.”

What a joke indeed !

2^nd Pay Review Committee was for executives and its recommendations confined to executives only. No pay scale for non-executives recommended by 2^nd Pay Review Committee.

[10.07.2009]Kerala circle convention against Disinvestment & Privatisation:- A circle level convention attended by a large number of workers was held at Bank Employees Union Hall, Thiruvananthapuram on 8^th July, 2009. Com. A.V. Kuriakose, Circle President, BSNLEU presided. Com. T. Sivadasa Menon, former Minister, Kerala State, and CITU leader inaugurated the convention. He called upon the workers to be prepared for sustained struggle against the onslaughts on the working-class including disinvestment and privatization. Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary in his speech emphasized the need for united struggles to save BSNL from IPO and disinvestment. Coms. J.N. Mishra, All India President, BSNLEU, R. Muralidharan Nair, AGS and K. Mohanan, Circle Secretary also addressed the meeting.

[10.07.2009]Trade Union Class at Trivandrum: - Three Days Trade Union Class was organized by BSNLEU for its All India office-bearers, Circle Secretaries and Senior leaders at EMS Academy, Thiruvananthapuram from 6^th to 8^th July, 2009. The classes were taken by Com. M.K. Pandhe, President, CITU, Dr. Prabhat Patnaik, Vice-Chairman, Planning Commission, Kerala, Com. Prabir Purkayastha, Delhi Science Forum, Com. Prasanna Kumar, State Secretary, CITU, Karnataka and Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU. The subjects included Global Recession and its impact on Indian economy, The present telecom scenario, Public Sector & challenges and Organization & tasks. The classes were appreciated by all participants. Such classes will be organized at Circle / District levels also. The Reception Committee headed by Coms. K. Mohanan, Circle Secretary, Kerala and R. Muralidharan Nair, AGS, CHQ made all arrangements for comfortable accommodation and food. Our heartfelt thanks to them.          <<Photos>>

[10.07.2009]Com. Om Vyas No more: - Com. Om Vyas, renowned poet and BSNLEU leader of Ujjain breathed his last at Appollo Hospital, Delhi.  He was brought to the hospital after a car accident. Three other poets who were in the car had died on the spot. Com. Vyas was very active in the union and had held many important posts in the union. Earlier CHQ had intervened to undo his victimization by the local administration. We express our deep shock and convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

[02.07.2009]Good News - Promotion Policy approved by DoT:- Promotion Policy for BSNL Non-executives cleared by Secretary, DoT. BSNLEU CHQ is meeting management for immediate implementation of the same.                                          VAN Namboodiri, GS.

[02.07.2009]Defeat the Disruption:- Certain unions in collaboration with management are circulating a copy of representation to be sent to CMD BSNL declaring willingness to accept what has been offered by management on wage revision. This is nothing but a trap against the interests of the BSNL Workers for getting a better wage revision like in other major PSUs. Earlier, a similar representation accepting managements offer of interim advance (4 months) floated by these unions were completely defeated by the workers. United Forum through a strike agreement got 6 months advance and new HRA rates for workers. Now again, the present nefarious move has also to be defeated. Mir Jafars and Jayachandras can not allowed to cheat the workers.

[02.07.2009]All India Trade Union Class:- All India Trade Union Class will be organized by BSNLEU at EMS Academy at Thiruvananthapuram from 6th to 8th July, 2009. Com. M.K. Pandhe, President, CITU, Dr. Prabhat Patnaik, Dy. Chairman, Plg. Commission, Kerala, Com. Prabir Purkayashta, Delhi Science Forum, Com. Prasanna Kumar, General Secretary, CITU, Karnataka and Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU will take the classes. In addition to Central Executive Committee members, each circle can depute two more comrades to the class. Circle Secretaries are requested to intimate their arrival, return journey etc. to Com. K. Mohanan, Circle Secretary, BSNLEU, Kerala Mob: 94470 75858 or Com. R. Muralidharan Nair, Asst. General Secretary, CHQ, Mob: 094470 06262.

GS, BSNLEU Meets CMD, BSNL:- Coms.V.A.N.Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU and M.S.Kadian, Circle Secretary, Haryana Circle met Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, BSNL and discussed the following:

Promotion Policy: General Secretary pointed out that the file is pending with Secretary, DoT and requested CMD,BSNL to ensure early approval by DoT and implementation. CMD assured to do the needful early.

GS met GM (Estt.) and discussed the following: (1) Prequalifying examination for TMs  for promotion to TTA.  (2) Grant of HRA at 10 % to the dependent areas of Gurgaon . GM agreed to take necessary action in the   matter.

Extended Meeting of CPSTU was held at Kochi on 27^th June, 2009 to discuss about Wage Revision in PSUs, struggle against disinvestment etc. Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, R. Muralidharan Nair, AGS, A.V. Kuriakose, Circle President, K. Mohanan, Circle Secretary, K. Padmanabhan, N. Ramesan, Circle Org. Secretaries, P.S. Peethambaran, District Secretary, Ernakulam and Honey Kumar, Branch Secretary participated.

See the declarations adopted by the convention and the letter to Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister signed by Central Trade Union Centres. <<click here>>

TUI Congress at Brazilia, Brazil: - Com. P. Abhimanyu, Dy. General Secretary, BSNLEU will be attending International Congress of the Trade Union International of Public & Allied Employees, being held on 28^th and 29^th June, 2009 at Brazilia, Brazil as the delegate from BSNL Employees union. He leaves for Brazilia on 27^th June, 2009 and will return on 6^th July, 2009.

Examination for promotion to TTA and TM being notified: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met Shri D.P. De, GM (Estt.) on 24.06.2009 and discussed about the holding of examination for promotion to TTA and TM as assured in National Council Meeting. GM (Estt.) stated that the notifications for the above two examinations will be issued shortly.

[16.06.2009]Meeting with GM (Estt.) BSNL CO: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, Com. K.R. Yadav, Vice President, Com. P. Asokababu, AGS, and Com. Swapan Chakraborty, AGS, BSNLEU met Shri D.P. De, GM (Estt.), BSNL CO today (16.06.2009) and discussed the issues related to compassionate appointments and casual labour. The GM (Estt.) stated the following:-

1. Compassionate appointment cases are being settled as per priority, based on date of death of the expired official. Settlement of compassionate appointment cases will be expedited.

2. On our demand for payment of advance for TSMs pending their wage revision, a proposal was put up for the consideration of the management.

3. Revision of casual labour wages on CDA pattern is under consideration.

4. On the demand of the union for regularization of casual labour management appointed a committee to examine the same.

[11.06.2009]Promotion Policy and DA merger for retirees: -Com. P. Asokababu, AGS and Com. K.R. Yadav, Vice President, BSNLEU met the DDG (Estt.), DoT, Shri A.K. Das today (11.06.2009) and discussed the above issues, and the following is the position:-

 (1)  Promotion policy is under active consideration and DoT’s approval is likely to be given early.

 (2)  After DPE’s objection regarding DA merger for retirees (for those retired before 01.01.2007), the DoT’s legal call was consulted and now the case is being processed for forwarding to Department of Pension for its approval.

[10.06.2009]Committee on Change of Designations met on 09.06.2009:- Committee to recommend changes of Designation met yesterday. The Staff Side suggested new designation for certain cadres. Next meeting is fixed for 16.06.2009. Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, P. Abhimanyu and other committee members attended from staff side.

[09.06.2009] Meeting with CMD: - Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD BSNL, on 8^th June 2009 and discussed the following issues. 

1. Expediting Tender for 63 million GSM lines.
2. Introduction of Vehicle Policy.
3. Implementation of Maternity Leave, Child Care Leave etc. in BSNL. For Details <<click here>>

[02.06.2009] Meeting of the Steering Committee of the United Forum:- A meeting of the Steering Committee of the United Forum is held in the National Council Office, on 2^nd June, 2009. Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS, P. Abhimanyu, Dy. GS and Swapan Chakraborthy, AGS represented BSNLEU. Com. V. Subburaman, GS, TEPU, Com. N.D. Ram, National President SEWA BSNL, Com. Suresh Kumar, GS, BSNL MS, Com. Hakkam Singh (SNATTA) participated. Based on the inputs given by the management, detailed discussion took place on the change of designation of No-Executives. It was decided that one more round of discussion in the Steering Committee will take place on 8^th June, 2009, before discussion with the Management.

[02.06.2009] Meeting of the Joint Committee for change of designations of Non-Executives:- The first meeting of the Joint Committee for change of designations of Non-Executives took place on 01.06.2009 at 1100 hrs. Staff Side is represented by Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS, BSNLEU, Com. P. Abhimanyu, Dy. GS, BSNLEU, Com. V. Subburaman, GS, TEPU and Com. Hakkam Singh (SNATTA). The official side is represented by Shri Deepak Aggarwal (DGM Restg.) and Shri P.K. Mishra (DGM, Estt.). Informations relating  to the various cadres existing is BSNL and their respective strength were handed over to the Staff Side. A preliminary discussion took place on the basics of the change of designation. It is decided that the committee shall meet again on 8^th June, 2009. The last date for submission of the committee's report is fixed as 15^th June, 2009.

[15.05.09] Revised Pension Rules as per VI CPC for BSNL Retirees issued:- As assured by Shri R. Ashok, Member (Finance) to Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU, orders have now been issued on 14.05.2009 by DoT raising DCRG limit from Rs. 3.5 to Rs. 10 lakhs and allowing revised Pension rules regarding Commutation table, emoluments, qualifying service etc. as per VI CPC recommendations.

[01.05.09]   ONE HOUR WALK OUT ON 04.05.2009 : - BSNL management has arbitrarily issued order on 30.04.2009, granting very meager amount of  Interim Relief, equivalent to 4 months basic pay. CHQ BSNLEU condemns the decision of the management, granting paltry amount as IR, as well the arbitrary manner in which the order is issued.

United Forum of BSNL unions has given call to BSNL employees to walk out from duty/office, for one hour on Monday the 4^th May 2009. Mobilise the workers to give a fitting reply to the BSNL management’s high handedness.  

[30.04.09]What is our demand on Interim Relief ?:- Interim Relief is usually granted when the due wage revision is delayed. For Central Public Sector employees, wage revision is due w.e.f. 01-01-2007. Already, more than 27 months have elapsed. Management should have offered IR when there has been such long delay. Most of the other PSUs have granted either interim relief or pay advance much earlier. Even after BSNLEU/United Forum of BSNL Unions demanded interim relief, the management did not take any decision. The demand of the UF is that Interim Relief of 50% of pay or Rs. 3000/- whichever is more be paid. If it is pay advance, Rs. 50,000/- to Rs.80,000/- be paid. This is similar to what is paid in the other PSUs.

 The management first offered two months basic pay as advance. This will come to Rs.8,000/- at the lowest level. After much discussion in the meeting on 29-04-09, CMD offered 4 months basic pay ie. Rs. 16,000/- at the lowest level. We could not accept such very meagre advance. The workers are eligible  for increase for the last 27 months since 01-01-07.Even if an advance of Rs. 1000/-  p.m. is calculated, then it will come to Rs. 27,000/.It is pertinent to note here that in the conversion from CDA to IDA in 2000, all officials got more than Rs.1500/- p.m. But the management is not prepared to see reason and comparison with other PSUs and concede our demands.

 United Forum is not adamant that whatever it demanded should be fully accepted. But there is always a bench mark below which it is impossible to agree.

 When even the lowest executive is being paid Rs. one lakh as arrears (40% already paid and 60% being paid in 2008-09), leave alone the top executives who are being paid arrears of about 6 lakhs or so, why the non-executives can not be paid even half of it? Can we accept such meagre offer?  Certainly not.

 Let us seriously prepare for the two days strike on 19-20th May 2009. Meet each and every worker and explain our demands and the management's negative response.

Meeting with Member (Services):- Earlier Com. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU discussed the same issue, with Shri V.K. Shukla, member (services), DoT. He stated that promotion policy has been submitted to Secretary, DoT. He will go through the file regarding wage revision for 5 year periodicity as soon as it is received by him.

General Secretary Meets Secretary, DoT on Wage Revision and Promotion Policy:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU met Shri Sidhartha Behura, Secretary, DoT on 24^th June, 2009 and discussed the following issues:

1.      Promotion Policy : - Com. Namboodiri requested for early approval of the promotion policy for non-executives in BSNL which has been forwarded to DoT by BSNL Management. Secretary DoT assured early approval of it.

2.      Wage Revision:- General Secretary, BSNLEU requested secretary, DoT that approval be granted for 5 year periodicity for wage revision, which has been referred to DoT by BSNL. Secretary asked about fitment % etc. He stated that the file is yet to reach him and will take necessary action after examination of the case.

[28.05.2009] Formation of Joint Committee for change of designations of non-executives:- On the basis of the National Council decision, the management has now constituted the Committee for change of designations. The Committee is directed to finalise its report by 15^th June, 2009.

[16.05.09] Circle Executive Committee Delhi NTR calls for full Strike:- The extended CEC meeting of NTR Circle, held at Delhi on 15^th May 2009 fully endorsed the strike call and called upon all the workers in NTR Circle to go on strike on 19^th and 20^th May 2009 demanding early wage revision. Com. H.L. Makkar, Circle President presided. Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary spoke in detail on the demands. Coms. Mihir Das Gupta, AGS, Chidu Singh, R.S. Chauhan, Malhotra and others addressed.

[16.05.09] Chennai Telephones Convention on 14.05.2009 decided for massive Strike:- The more than 1000 office bearers and activists of united Forum of BSNL Unions called upon Chennai BSNL workers to fully participate and make the strike on 19-20 May 2009 successful. The convention condemned the non-settlement of wage demands of management. Coms. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU, Subburaman, General Secretary, TEPU, Thangaraj, Circle Secretary, BSNLEU, R. Gunasekhar, All India Organizing Secretary and other leaders addressed.

[06.05.09]National Council Constituted. Conspiracy defeated!:- At last, after much dilly dallying, the National Council has been constituted with the names of the official Side and the Staff Side. GM(SR) had earlier raised certain irrelevant objections to deny the formation. It was his contention that members from unions other than BSNLEU cannot be more than one third of the total number, and this condition is in accordance with the provisions of the Indian Trade Union Act which stipulates that more than one third office bearers cannot be outsiders. As can be understood by even a layman, this was an absurd argument. The Trade Union Act is concerned with election of office bearers of the union and it has no connection with the nomination to National Council. Further, the situation was similar after second and third verifications, and there was no objection from the management at that time.  The representative union has got the prerogative to nominate its representatives. This was accepted by the Director(HRD), but even thereafter constitution of the National Council was delayed. GS and other comrades of CHQ met CMD also. Now after much delay, the management has been compelled to constitute the National Council at last. The conspiracy of the GM(SR) against the recognised union  has been exposed and defeated. Congratulations to BSNL Workers!  

[02.05.09] Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti : - Bharath Ratna Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Janma Jayanti was celebrated in the CTO Dormitory Hall, New Delhi. Com. Chhattar Singh presided. Shri Kuldeep Goyal, CMD, BSNL, Shri Ram Snehi, Secretary General, FBTO, Shri B.R. Jakhatia, Secretary General, SEWA BSNL, Shri Hari Singh, General secretary, BTU BSNL, Shri N.D. Ram, President, SEWA BSNL and others addressed.

Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU paid his respectful homage to Baba Saheb Dr.B.R. Ambedkar and mentioned about his great contribution to the Nation and oppressed section of the Society. He also mentioned that BSNLEU has demanded that 14^th April, the birth day of Baba Saheb Ambedkar be declared as National Holiday. 

[14.05.09]  Com. Homi Daji, Former President of E-III is no more:- We are sorry to intimate that Com. Homi Daji, Former President of E-III expired. Our heartful condolences to the grieved family and Comrades.

[30.04.09]CHQ Expresses heartfelt sorrow......CHQ expresses its heartfelt sorrow at the accident death of eight BSNL comrades and family members from Telecom Stores Kolkata during their tour of Kullu(HP). The private mini bus they were travelling fell in to a ravine. Com. Syal, our circle Secretary, HP, other comrades and the management all helped in taking the bodies and admitting the seriously injured persons in the hospital.

Com. Ankur Pakrashi, Asst. Circle Secretary, Telecom Stores, BSNLEU (son of late veteran leader Com. Sushil Pakrashi) and his daughter Suhrita died in the accident.. His other daughter and wife injured.  Others who died include Com. Shekhar Chakraborty and daughter Amrita. Com Smaarajit Pal lost his wife and daughter. Com. V.A.N.Namboodiri, GS, contacted CMD and others to ensure that maximum help is given in taking the injured to the hospital and bringing the bodies. CHQ conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, friends and comrades.

[28.04.09]Tamil Nadu Circle BSNLEU Convention supports strike call:- The Circle Convention of Tamil Nadu  BSNLEU held at Trichy on 25th April 2009 has unanimously resolved to make the 19-20^th May 2009 Strike a total success. More than 800 comrades from all over the circle participated. The convention fully appreciated the demands raised by the United Forum and demanded the management to accept the demands. Com. Ambrose, Circle President, presided.

Coms.A.K. Padmanabhan, Secretary,CITU, Muthusundaram, Secretary, All India State Govt. Employees Federation, V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, P. Abhimanyu, Dy. General Secretary  and S. Chellappa, Circle Secretary, BSNLEU Tamil Nadu  addressed.

[17.04.09] Meeting with Member(F) / DoT on 17th April 2009: Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, GS and Com. P. Asokababu, AGS met Shri R. Ashok, Member(Finance)/ DoT today (17th April'09). Member(F) assured to settle 50% IDA Merger for BSNL Retirees within one month. He further assured to consider the issue of Pension on additional increment granted in lieu of Grade-IV and to consider the anomaly in case of IDA merger for those retired between 01.01.07 and 30.09.07.            ------ V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU

[17.04.09] Good News! Promotion Policy approved by BSNL Full Board on 16th April'09 after much discussion. Now, after cooling period of about a fortnight, it will be sent to DoT for approval, since new higher pay scales are being introduced. We are making all out efforts for early approval. - V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU

[16.04.09] Yes! We lack  that ‘expertise’ & ‘experiences’ which NFTE-FNTO boast!: - FNTO has alleged that BSNLEU has got neither experience nor expertise to clinch any issue. We agree with them that BSNLEU does not have that ‘experience’ and that ‘expertise’ to clinch issues. A perusal of the track record will establish that NFTE-FNTO have sufficiently that ‘experience’ and that ‘expertise’ which we lack. The following few examples are sufficient for proving this.<<click for full text>>   <<Hindi version>>

NFTE - FNTO  DUBIOUS ROLE: - NFTE-FNTO has made secret agreement with the management for a very small amount of interim relief and have already given wide publicity that the Interim Relief will be agreed today between the management and the BSNLEU. It was also propagated  by them that since agreement has already been reached by them with management, there will be no meeting of the committee today as scheduled.  The first proposal of the management was only for two months basic pay to be given as interim relief. NFTE-FNTO have already agreed for this with the management and wanted to compel us also to take a similar decision and blame us later. This conspiracy became clear during the discussions. We strongly opposed and rejected the small offer which made the official side to reconsider and consult with the management. 

NFTE — FNTO also is propagating for accepting 10 year agreement instead of 5 year agreement  as per the desire of the management. A big conspiracy has been hatched between the management and the NFTE-FNTO so that they will get more support from the management on facilities etc. Earlier they had agreed for IPO and VRS for certain facilities and now they want lesser benefit for the workers to get some more concessions for their unions.

Let us defeat the conspiracy and get a better deal for the workers.

[15.04.2009]Jallianwala Bagh Martyrs remembered: -[The 90^th Anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre was observed at Amritsar on 13^th April, 2009. At 1600 hours, thousands of the people assembled at Jallianwala Bagh stood in silence and honoured the memory of those who have been killed in the massacre. The Punjab Police band played the national anthem. The Bihar Governor, Shri R.L. Bhatia presided over the function. Health Minister Laxmi Kant Chawla and other leaders spoke. The leaders expressed the hope that people will draw inspiration from the lives of those who lost or sacrificed their lives in the freedom struggle. Along with social and political leaders Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU also placed pushpa chakra on the Martyrs memorial. Later a meeting was held at Guru Nanak Hall under the auspices of Amar Shahid Yadgar Committee presided over by Com. Vijay Mishra. Thousands including a large member of women and children participated. Coms. M.K. Pandhe, President, CITU, Sunit Chopra, V.A.N. Namboodiri and other leaders addressed. There were many cultural programmes participated by hundreds of college and school children on the sacrifice of martyrs and social issues which continued up to 2030 hours.  <<click for photo>>

[15.04.2009] 156^th Anniversary of Telegraph Service in India:- On 16^th April, 1853, one hundred fifty six years earlier, the Telegraph and Railway Services were started in India. Now Railway is the biggest Department with more than 13 lakh workers. Indian Telecom is the fasted growing service sector in the world. Comrades, let us make all out efforts for the best service to the people.

[13.04.2009] BSNLEU pays respectful homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar<<click here>>

Red Salute to Jallianwala Bagh Martyrs:- Today 13^th April, 2009 is the 90^th Anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre by the Britishers killing hundreds of people and wounding thousands who had assembled peacefully to protest against the British rule and Rowlatt Act. The Jallianwala Bagh incident shook the entire country and it gave a new strength to the freedom struggle. Rabindranath Tagore returned his knighthood in protest. General Dyer, who ordered the massacre was shot dead in London by Udham Singh. Com. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev were executed on 23^rd March, 1931, who took the freedom struggle to a new revolutionary path. Com. Bhagat Singh shouted “Long Live Revolution” and “Inquilab Zindabad” which still is the slogan of the toiling masses. <<Click for photo>>

Review of BSNL's Medical Policy <<click here>>

CMD ASSURES SETTLEMENT OF ITS ABSORPTION <<click here>>

Demonstration at  BSNL Corporate office, New Delhi on 27-02-2009. Comrades.Harisingh,GS,BTU BSNL,K.R.Yadav,Vice President, BSNLEU,Ganesh Mathpati,Assistant General Secretary,BSNLEU, Zile Singh Circle Secretary,CO,BSNLEU Addressed the meeting.  <<<Photos>>>

Mammoth March to Parliament on 18.02.2009: - At the call of Sponsoring Committee of Trade Unions 50 thousand workers from all parts of the country participated in the mammoth and colourful march to Parliament on 18^th February, 2009. Hundreds of BSNL Employees and Contract Workers also joined the rally at the call of BSNLEU. The meeting was addressed by leaders of Central Trade Unions and Federations. Later a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister was submitted to Shri Pranab Mukherjee.

BSNLEU convey greetings to all for making the Parliament March a grand success.<<Photos>>    <<Memorandum to Prime Minister>>

GS addresses All India Conference of ITEF at Mumbai:- Com. V.A.N. Namboodiri, General Secretary, BSNLEU attended and addressed the 27th All India Conference of the Income Tax Employees Federation  held at Mumbai on 11th February 2009. In his address he opposed the anti-worker policies of the Government and called for united struggle. He mentioned the recent developments in telecom sector and exposed the pro-private policy and decisions of the Government. He also informed the house about the decision of the Joint Forum of BSNL Associations and Unions to seek repatriation to Government service which was received with much applause. Com. Namboodiri conveyed the greetings of the BSNLEU to the Conference. The conference was presided over by Com. VRS Krishna and welcomed by Com. KKN Kutty, Secretary General. <<PHOTOS>>

Davengere sets the example to Growth: Davengere has shown the example how to develop and improve Services. ‘BSNL Mela’s were conducted in about 50 places during 17^th December, 2008 to 7^th February, 2009 and more than 7500 fixed lines and 30,000 mobile connections were provided. A record collection of more than Rs. One Crore was also generated. Maximum expenditure for these melas were below Rs. Two lakhs. 19,000 mobiles and 2,000 fixed lines were provided in Davangere only.

CHQ congratulates Shri Jyothi Shankar, GM Telecom and the staff of Davengere SSA for this excellent work. Our District union under the leadership of Com. H.Y. Arifulla Khan, District Secretary, BSNLEU took an active role.

Let others also emulate this good example!

Massive Demonstration and Rally before Parliament on 18th February 2009:- Sponsoring Committee of Trade Unions consisting of AITUC, CITU, HMS, AICCTU, AIUTUC, UTUC, TUCC, All India Federations in BSNL, Banks, Insurance, State and Central Government Employees, Railways, Defence, Airlines, Airports etc. have called upon the workers to massively participate in the Mammoth Demonstration and Rally before Parliament to be held on 18th February 2009 on the important demands of the workers and against the anti-people policies of the Government. CHQ calls upon Circle Secretaries, especially nearest circles, to ensure maximum participation in the rally from their circles. Declaration enclosed. <<click here>>

CONGRATULATIONS & THANKS:-CHQ conveys its Hearty Congratulations and thanks to all BSNL Workers and well wishers who made it possible for the United Forum to win the Membership Verification with good majority.

BSNLEU got 1,24,053 votes and NFTE 95,225, thus having a majority of 28,828 votes. The percentage of votes received by BSNLEU is 49.97% of total votes (2,48,278) and 52.48 % of polled votes (23,6392).

BSNLEU has achieved a hat trick by winning consecutively in 2004, 2006 & 2009. All the credit goes to the workers and leaders who have worked magnificently for this victory.

[06.10.2009] All India Protest Day on 28^th October, 2009 - National Convention Call:- The National Convention of 9 Central Trade Unions – CITU, AITUC, INTUC, BMS, HMS, AIUTUC, TUCC, AICCTU, UTUC have called upon the working class to jointly observe 28^th October, 2009 as All India Protest Day highlighting the demands. Organize maximum participation. To see National Convention Declaration. <<click here>>

Where was FNTO when others went on strike on Wage Revision & Other Demands? <<Click here>>

"A marriage of convenience"- " I joined NFTE alliance to save my skin, but I come out of it to save my soul" <<Click here>>

Is BSNL Workers Rashtriya Union refused to sign the agreement on Non-Executive Promotion Policy? <<Click here>>

Com. M.K. Pandhe, President, CITU, writes to Shri M. Karunanidhi, Hon'ble Chief Minister , Tamil Nadu,      requesting to stop disinvestment in BSNL<<click here>>

Press Release

4th AIC

Special Casual Leave for AIC Delegates

CEC Meeting

United Forum & Joint Forum