Tensed situation prevailed at Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) on Saturday when a section of head load workers demanded nokkukooli for shifting books to the school of engineering library. The dispute, which started in the morning, was settled by afternoon after varsity authorities accepted the demand put forward by trade unionists.
A few days ago, the varsity authorities and head load workers in the area had reached an understanding on shifting the books from the library to a new building. “The workers were to shift the books to the new building for Rs 20,000. After a couple of days, they demanded Rs 35,000 for the job,” said Cusat registrar A Ramachandran.
“On Saturday, students, teachers and staff tried to shift the books and the trade union leaders objected. Though we called police, they also couldn’t do anything.
As talks heated up, they demanded Rs 40,000 for loading the books to a truck and an equal amount for unloading. Later we settled the issue and they agreed to do the job for Rs 35,000,” he said. According to trade union leaders, the actual amount as per the rates fixed by head load workers welfare board was Rs 80,000.
“Workers had to shift around 40,000 books, 400 chairs and 120 racks from the library that was functioning in the third floor of a building. All these objects were to be shifted to another building that was one kilometre away. We agreed charge just Rs 35,000 since Cusat is an educational institution,” said CITU district secretary K N Gopinath.
Police have not registered a case. “The issue was settled after discussions and there isn’t any complaint.
So, we haven’t registered a case,” said SI Paul of Kalamassery police station.
Source : Times of India