(a) whether Forward Seamens Union of India had given a call for one day strike on 22nd February to Indian and foreign going ships of Shipping Corporation of India against privatisation;
(b) whether the Government have taken any steps to avert the strike;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SHIPPING (SHRI SHRIPAD Y. NAIK)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b)&(c) Yes, Sir. The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) Officers held meetings with the leaders of Forward Seamen`s Union of India (FSUI) requesting them to withdraw the strike since policy decision of the Government regarding disinvestment of SCI can not be reversed. Further, SCI also sent messages to the controlling officers of all their vessels to the effect that the proposed strike would be illegal as per Merchant Shipping Act and the crew shall also be liable to be penalised, besides attracting usual penal provision of `No work No pay`. However, the workers Union proceeded with the strike.
(d) Does not arise.