"Labour dept declares HUL Nabha workmen stir ‘illegal’; union to hold demonstrations", 13 June 2020

Weeks after workmen at the Nabha factory of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) went on strike over the issue of salary during the lockdown, the Labour Department has now declared their protest ‘illegal’.  

The workers’ union at the factory, Milkfood Worker Union, had come at loggerheads with the company after the latter, reportedly, failed to provide full salary to the over 1,700 employees, including contractual staff — during the lockdown.

The Labour Department, in its official communiqué, said that the strike by the workmen had been declared illegal — under the Industrial Dispute Act.

The Nabha HUL — which produces essential health food products, Horlicks and Boosts — had to stop production ever since the workmen had gone on strike since May 23.

Meanwhile, HUL management, in a press release, — following the declaration — said the company hoped the workers would resume immediately, and pending Issues would be resolved by dialogue with union, thereafter.

...Meanwhile, JP Singh, Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC), Patiala, said the decision was taken as per the act. He said, “The strike has already been called illegal by the competent authority, consequently, company can take action against the workmen.”