By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 15: The Joint Action Committee Muster Roll Workers Union (JACMRWU) has temporarily suspended its planned protest, scheduled for December 16 at Madan Malki, following an assurance of discussions from Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.
JACMRWU general secretary Bympher Lyndem confirmed the decision, stating the chief minister assured the union’s adviser that talks would be held on December 17, or in January 2026 should the meeting not be convened this month.
The union had previously protested, demanding a revision of the floor rate and payment of Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) for Muster Roll workers.
Lyndem noted that the Labour Commissioner had previously met with the union and explained that the department could not enhance the VDA due to a reduction in GST and a decline in the prices of essential commodities. The union stated that they had submitted a written representation thereafter but had not received a response.
Although the union had struggled to secure an appointment earlier, the JACMRWU’s adviser, K. Pariat, recently met with the chief minister and conveyed the workers’ concerns. During the meeting, the chief minister requested the union defer the proposed protest and promised to discuss the matter at the earliest.
In response to the assurance, the JACMRWU announced the temporary suspension, stating they respect the chief minister’s request and remain hopeful that meaningful discussions will be held soon to address grievances.
The union also expressed gratitude to the chief minister and the Council of Ministers for implementing the 50 per cent reservation for Regular Casual Workers (RCWs) under the Regular Casual Workers Scheme, 1996.
Crucially, the union urged the chief minister, who also holds the Finance portfolio, to intervene and ensure the immediate release of pending wages for Muster Roll workers in the Sericulture and Veterinary departments. These workers have reportedly not been paid for the past six months. The JACMRWU requested that all dues be cleared before Christmas, stressing that timely payment would provide essential relief to the affected workers and their families.
