By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 10: Employees of the three hotels under the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) have voiced their frustrations over management’s lack of professionalism, citing issues such as delayed contract renewals, lack of regularisation, nepotism, and ignored appeals for better working conditions.
Several employees reported that their wages are below the daily wage of Rs 373 set by the Labour Commission, and promised arrears have yet to be paid. Many have worked in various capacities for over 15-16 years without salary increments, while newer employees have received raises and been transferred between the corporation’s three hotels — Orchid Mawkasiang, Orchid Umiam, and Pine Wood (State Convention Centre).
“Recently, a chambermaid was shifted to the head office department by HR with an increment of Rs 16,000 while we who have been demanding an increment for years now kept watching,” said one employee.
Employees also pointed out the absence of a fixed salary structure, with clerks and dishwashers earning the same wages. Efforts to address these issues with higher management have been unfruitful, despite submitting a representation to the MTDC chairman.
Their demands include the implementation of the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) benefits, annual salary increments for daily wage and contractual employees, timely issuance of contractual papers, fair distribution of overtime pay, increased operational leave, regularisation of senior employees based on service and experience, and designated promotions for employee welfare.
The employees specifically criticized HR officer Belinda Lyngdoh for her lack of cooperation, alleging that she threatens those who raise issues. “Let’s see what you will do when you are thrown out,” she reportedly told employees. They also claimed that Lyngdoh is not qualified and is over-aged for her position, further accusing her of blocking their efforts to communicate with higher-ups.