MPM crisis deepens; workers told to go on leave

 Around a thousand workers of the loss-making Mysore Paper Mills (MPM) Limited, a public sector undertaking, have been asked to go on earned leave from November 22 onwards.

The management has directed 680 workers and 55 officers to go on leave without fail. Besides, it has sent a ‘no-work’ message to 495 contract workers. The management issued notice to the workers, seeking their signature. But they refused to sign it.

MPM administrative officer Malavalli stated that as part of saving the factory, the management had taken this decision. Those who have leaves in their account have been asked to avail them. This is not lay-off or suspension at all.  Harsha Gupta, Managing Director of MPM, had even asked whether the officers were ready to work for half salary.

The move of the management triggered tension in the factory. The management took this stand after promising the workers that their salaries would be credited to their bank accounts soon.

Gupta is likely to hold a meet with higher officials in Bengaluru on November 23.  
The workers continued their agitation.