WB mulls amends in labour laws to prevent strikes

The West Bengal government is mulling amendment of labour laws to prevent strikes on "trivial issues", while also checking unfair labour practices.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had recently sought an end to the 'bandh culture' in the state in the interest of industrialisation.

"The West Bengal government, through a new labour policy, will help labourers understand the advantage of having a discussion to solve industrial disputes instead of calling a strike on trivial issues," Labour Minister Purnendu Bose said.

"Militant trade unionism led to the closure of many industries in the erstwhile Left Front regime," Bose, a former Naxalite leader who joined the Trinamool Congress after taking part in Singur movement, said.

"Irresponsible trade unionism will not be tolerated. Right to strike is the last resort, but cannot be misused," he said.

"If a factory closes down, the workers are affected the most. The new government believes in negotiations to keep factory gates open," Bose, who is also a trade union leader said.

He pointed out that strike ballot was essential before an industrial action, which was not followed.

"In a number of cases, strike ballot rules are not followed before going on strike. This cannot continue," he said.