Deadlock in KESC management, union talks

Despite the intervention of Sindh Governor Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan to resolve the ongoing dispute, the management of Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) refused to reinstate laid off workers of the utility, sources said on Monday.
They said that Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan tried it best to persuade the KESC management to remove the surplus pool and allow the workers to rejoin their duties to resolve the ongoing tussle between the management and the labour union, but the utility''s management stuck to its decision.
Despite several rounds of talks between the protesting employees of the utility and the management, the issues could not be ironed out, they said. The union leaders described the negotiation as fruitless, as KESC did not accept their demands. Sources disclosed that during the meeting between KESC management and Sindh governor it was decided that non-core staff workers would not return to their duties until the dispute is completely resolved, and their salaries would be paid via a relief package. They will also remain immune to attendance.
Union leaders have pledged their support to the KESC in continuing routine work at offices, while a commission will be formed within a week to settle all disagreements, including cases registered against the KESC workers. According to sources the KESC management postponed dismissal of those not benefiting from the voluntary separation scheme.
They said that Governor Sindh Ishratul Ebad and Commissioner Karachi, Mohammad Hussain Syed held extensive talks with KESC management and union leaders to resolve the on going dispute but no to avail as CBA leaders refused to accept the proposal of the management to resolve the issue. This led to deadlock in the negotiation between the two parties. However, till filing of the story (2:00am) talks were underway to resolve the issue.
Talking to Business Recorder late Monday night KESC labour unions leader Latif Mughal and CBA chief Ikhalaq Ahmed said they had placed two points on the table. They wanted the 4,500 workers to be assigned duties and taken out of the surplus pool. They wanted, what they said, the victimisation of the workers should end, and all notices, charge sheets and termination letters be withdrawn immediately.