DIBRUGARH, Sept 11 � The Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha (ACMS) today resolved to press for 20% bonus for the workers of the tea gardens in the Brahmaputra Valley. ACMS, considered to be Asia�s biggest trade union, represents tea garden workers of more than 800 tea estates.
The trade union leaders from respective branches in Brahmaputra Valley assembled in its central office here today and held discussion on the bonus issue. The meeting, presided over by its president, Dibrugarh MP Paban Singh Ghatowar, resolved that the workers would not accept bonus below 20 %.
�Our demand is that all planters have to disburse 20% bonus 15 days ahead of Durga Puja,� Dileshwar Tanti, general secretary, ACMS told this newspaper.
Incase of any disagreement with the planters, Tanti said ACMS would negotiate and settle. He also added that planters would also be informed through letters about the resolution.
The ACMS has also called upon owners of small tea plantations to release bonus for their workers. The trade union is making a determined effort to compel small tea growers, coming within the purview of the Plantation Labour Act, to give out bonus to its workers. Although some small tea growers do offer small amount of cash to its workers for the puja celebrations, the trade union wants bonus for the workers.
