Udupi
J. Balakrishna Shetty, president of the Karnataka State Beedi Federation, has alleged that both the central and state governments are neglecting beedi workers. He stated that corporate companies and capitalists are focused on increasing their wealth at the expense of workers.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the 8th Udupi District Beedi Workers’ Conference, organized by the Udupi District Beedi Workers’ Federation (CITU) at the Ajjarakadu Vima Workers’ Union office hall.
Shetty highlighted that beedi owners are delaying payment of government-mandated allowances and minimum wages. While the government has set the minimum wage at Rs. 301, owners are reportedly paying only Rs. 287 or less. He warned that workers would have to launch decisive struggles in the coming days to claim their rights.
Shetty also criticized efforts to divert workers from their struggles under the guise of religion, which weakens their movements. He emphasized that if millions of workers protest on the streets, all issues would be resolved.
He added that representatives, MLAs, and MPs have not spoken about beedi workers in the assembly. Over 3 lakh workers are employed in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, and their condition is alarming. He announced an indefinite night protest in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office starting November 24, followed by a sit-in at the Assistant Commissioner’s office on November 28.
Key attendees included Federation Vice-President Balkis, Karkala Taluk Beedi Workers’ Union President Sunitha Shetty, Janavadi Mahila Sangha Secretary Sheelavati, and Udupi Beedi Union President Nalini S. The conference was presided over by Federation President Mahabal Vadeyar Hobli, with Secretary Umesh Kundar presenting the welcome address and report, and Treasurer Kaviraj S. Kanchan coordinating the program.
During the conference, a new 15-member committee for the next three years was elected for the Udupi District Beedi Workers’ Federation. Umesh Kundar was elected President, Kaviraj S. Kanchan as General Secretary, and Balkis as Treasurer, all unanimously.