Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress and Satyam Freshers Union are shocked by the news of sudden demise of Com. K Balagopal, a well known rights activist and acclaimed voice which stood un biased against any non- violence.
His support to our initiation of our unions is a great issue which none of the corporate sector new age employees would never forget.
On this regretful day we express our deep condolence to Human Rights Forum, his colleagues and associates and especially his family members.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
BUDGET - 2009 (Comments)
The Union budget submitted by the Union Finance Minister, Mr. Pranab Mukherjee has not addressed any issue of importance which is being demanded by the people. It failed to understand the stimulus or changes required for the overall development of the country.
The comment of Mr. Pranab Mukherjee in his speech that budget shall not be able to address the problem of recession shows that he has no belief which he is presenting and is also a clear indication of his inability to handle the responsibility.
Neither the wishes of the employees nor employers has been addressed. At the same time, indication of de-nationalization of public sector units in this time of economic downturn shows the possibility of further cuts in employment in the state owned industries. Though half of budgetary receipts are especially from the services sector there has been no mention of support or encouragement to that sector which has also provided a lot of employment in the new arenas.
Budget has not addressed the issues related to mismanagement of economic issues in corporate sector. The scams in the previous financial years did not deter this government to make the auditing and financial transactions a transparent / fraud free issue. It has also given no ears to the salary regularizations which are being demanded by the private sector employees though it is causing heavy economic disparities between top management and entry level salaries.
The new budget is a budget of failed administration and a reprint of the old budgets.
The comment of Mr. Pranab Mukherjee in his speech that budget shall not be able to address the problem of recession shows that he has no belief which he is presenting and is also a clear indication of his inability to handle the responsibility.
Neither the wishes of the employees nor employers has been addressed. At the same time, indication of de-nationalization of public sector units in this time of economic downturn shows the possibility of further cuts in employment in the state owned industries. Though half of budgetary receipts are especially from the services sector there has been no mention of support or encouragement to that sector which has also provided a lot of employment in the new arenas.
Budget has not addressed the issues related to mismanagement of economic issues in corporate sector. The scams in the previous financial years did not deter this government to make the auditing and financial transactions a transparent / fraud free issue. It has also given no ears to the salary regularizations which are being demanded by the private sector employees though it is causing heavy economic disparities between top management and entry level salaries.
The new budget is a budget of failed administration and a reprint of the old budgets.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
HAIL MICHAEL JACKSON
The death of MICHAEL JACKSON is an imminent loss to the world especially to the world of music. This revolutionary artist has created miracles which influenced more than half of the worlds population.
RADICAL DEMOCRATIC CORPORATE EMPLOYEES CONGRESS (RDCEC) expresses deep condolences to the fans, colleagues, family of the worlds greatest musical revolutionary who broke the cultural barriers, MJ.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
SATYAM VIRTUAL POOL POLICY = AN EXPLOITATION FOR UNDUE PROFITS
The employees of the corporate community are worried about the developments happening in Sat yam. The fraud had affected the future of employees and that of small share holders. Then the Union government started interfering into the affairs of the company saying that it would protect the prospects of the employees and that of small / petty investors. The induction of directors and the process of takeover of the company through bidding was not agitated / resisted by the employees of company with a hope that government would stand on its view.
Later, as even TechMahindra took over Satyam, there was no much interest shown to protect the small investors and no action has been taken against inside trading. Now TechMahindra has started cutting down the number of employees through a different name for layoff, called virtual pool for non billable employees. This is fabrication of the layoff and is a plot to exploit the fraud hit company much to the core. The categorization of employees as billable and non billable can't be done as every employee has been recruited through the same means and for the single entity.
The government policy, now seems to have changed as United Progressive Alliance is being dominated by the ruling Congress, shows no interest in interfering the company now. Employees strongly resent the statements of Minister for Corporate Affairs, Mr. Salman Khurshid trying to support the virtual pool policy of Sat yam. These statements, if true, stand as evidence for one who can say that the Congress government has no interest for protecting the employees of Sat yam and is also trying to gain illegal profits from the lobby of Mahindra's.
At this juncture, we feel that the Prime Minister, Mr. Manmohan Singh should take note of the happenings in Sat yam, ensure that employment is not at loss and protect the company from further being exploited for undue profits.
Later, as even TechMahindra took over Satyam, there was no much interest shown to protect the small investors and no action has been taken against inside trading. Now TechMahindra has started cutting down the number of employees through a different name for layoff, called virtual pool for non billable employees. This is fabrication of the layoff and is a plot to exploit the fraud hit company much to the core. The categorization of employees as billable and non billable can't be done as every employee has been recruited through the same means and for the single entity.
The government policy, now seems to have changed as United Progressive Alliance is being dominated by the ruling Congress, shows no interest in interfering the company now. Employees strongly resent the statements of Minister for Corporate Affairs, Mr. Salman Khurshid trying to support the virtual pool policy of Sat yam. These statements, if true, stand as evidence for one who can say that the Congress government has no interest for protecting the employees of Sat yam and is also trying to gain illegal profits from the lobby of Mahindra's.
At this juncture, we feel that the Prime Minister, Mr. Manmohan Singh should take note of the happenings in Sat yam, ensure that employment is not at loss and protect the company from further being exploited for undue profits.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Complaint against 24/7 Customer Pvt Ltd. for retrenching employees
To. Dt:13/06/2009
The Commissioner of Labour,
Government of Andhra Pradesh,
Hyderabad.
Sir,
Sub: Complaint against 24/7 Customer Pvt Ltd. for retrenching employees – Reg.
24/7 Customer Private Limited which provides outsourced customer support services to Echostar Dish network of United States of America has removed arbitrarily around 200 employees from its service in the last 2 months.
Initially 24/7 has around 1000 employees working for the above mentioned service and has now removed around 200 employees without stating any proper reasons. Though the company’s turnover / profits have not been affected because of the business propositions, the company with an urge to exploit the employees and to attain more profits, it has resorted to this sort of activity which shows that the company is not adhering to the principles of natural justice / acts for the welfare of the labour and employees.
The company also cheated the employees by not binding to the promises over incentives offered at the time of recruitment. The incentives promised to each employ are about Rs.10,000. The parameters are being changed without prior notice and are being intimated to the employees stating that it shall be applied from the previous months. The company is also forcing the employees to work for long hours and even on weekly offs (weekly holidays) without any extra pay as according to the statutes / acts related to shops and establishments under which these sort of companies (call centers) fall. Incase if the employees demand for their rights they are being threatened to be removed.
At this juncture, we request you to conduct an inquiry over this retrenchment and take necessary action immediately.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
LETTER to TECH MAHINDRA
To
Shri. Anand G Mahindra
Chairman
TechMahindra
India
Sir,
Sub: Satyam Freshers placement issue – Reg.
We congratulate you on this auspicious occasion of making the deal for take over of Satyam Computers.
At the same time we would like to bring it to your notice that there are around 6000 students who have been recruited to Satyam directly from college campuses. Because of the reasons well known to you, none of these students were given a date of joining and there was also no proper response from management side.
Students most of them who are our union members through us have requested all the concerned for necessary action. But, unfortunately there was no response. In view of the above mentioned circumstances; a lot of trouble and ambiguity is faced by students who were promised placements.
At this juncture, we feel that the take over of the company by experienced group as that of yours would result in addressing the issues we mentioned. We request you to kindly look into the issue of employment for those recruited and ensure placement as immediately as possible.
With lots of hope, anticipating a positive reply from your side.
SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
Shri. Anand G Mahindra
Chairman
TechMahindra
India
Sir,
Sub: Satyam Freshers placement issue – Reg.
We congratulate you on this auspicious occasion of making the deal for take over of Satyam Computers.
At the same time we would like to bring it to your notice that there are around 6000 students who have been recruited to Satyam directly from college campuses. Because of the reasons well known to you, none of these students were given a date of joining and there was also no proper response from management side.
Students most of them who are our union members through us have requested all the concerned for necessary action. But, unfortunately there was no response. In view of the above mentioned circumstances; a lot of trouble and ambiguity is faced by students who were promised placements.
At this juncture, we feel that the take over of the company by experienced group as that of yours would result in addressing the issues we mentioned. We request you to kindly look into the issue of employment for those recruited and ensure placement as immediately as possible.
With lots of hope, anticipating a positive reply from your side.
SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
PRESS MEET MUMBAI
A Press Conference is organised by Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress and Satyam Freshers Union in Mumbai on 30th March, 2009 at Mumbai Municipal Mazdoor Union Office.
The main agenda of the Press Conference was to highlight the problems of employees in corporate sector and especially those of freshers.
The Satyam Freshers issue was also a major issue with demand to Satyam Board, urging them to accept job offers to Satyam as liability of company while takeover.
The Press Conference was attended by RDCEC-Convenor, Mr. Ravi Teja and Satyam Freshers Union - Mumbai - Kapil, Prashant and others.
The main agenda of the Press Conference was to highlight the problems of employees in corporate sector and especially those of freshers.
The Satyam Freshers issue was also a major issue with demand to Satyam Board, urging them to accept job offers to Satyam as liability of company while takeover.
The Press Conference was attended by RDCEC-Convenor, Mr. Ravi Teja and Satyam Freshers Union - Mumbai - Kapil, Prashant and others.
MUMBAI- Satyam Freshers Union
Satyam Freshers Union has now spread to Mumbai.
Prashant, Kapil, Avinash and other freshers of Mumbai has taken the responsibility of organising Satyam Freshers Union in Mumbai.
Strategy and program is being planned to spread the Union all over the country with members who are Satyam Freshers.
Prashant, Kapil, Avinash and other freshers of Mumbai has taken the responsibility of organising Satyam Freshers Union in Mumbai.
Strategy and program is being planned to spread the Union all over the country with members who are Satyam Freshers.
HMKP - Convention - Resolution
Hind Mazdoor Kisan Panchayat, a central trade union has adopted the resolution of supporting Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress and supporting the demands of employees in the corporate sector in its Biennial Convention held on 30th March, 2009 at Mumbai.
The resolution was an out come of the deliberation by Mr. Ravi Teja, Convenor - RDCEC at the meeting.
There was also a seperate resolution with regard to Satyam Freshers, demanding employment along with consideration of job offers of company as liability while take over.
Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress and Satyam Freshers Union thank Hind Mazdoor Kisan Panchayat for its open ended support.
The resolution was an out come of the deliberation by Mr. Ravi Teja, Convenor - RDCEC at the meeting.
There was also a seperate resolution with regard to Satyam Freshers, demanding employment along with consideration of job offers of company as liability while take over.
Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress and Satyam Freshers Union thank Hind Mazdoor Kisan Panchayat for its open ended support.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
APPEAL TO ALL POLITICAL PARTIES
Satyam irregularities are all known to everybody not only in the state of Andhra Pradesh, but also the whole country.
There has been many actions on part of government in regard to protection of share holders interests and company in general. But, there hasn’t been much specific action for the rights of employees or those who are given offer.
Especially, the spate of young graduates from colleges who were given job offers is much worse. These students are not given a date of joining even though they provided their acceptance to the offer. The whole process of recruitment started from 2006 and offer letters have been given till 2008 for the passing out batch. For numerical figure, freshers recruited till 2008 stands at around 6000. The 2009 graduating batch recruited figure is not yet known.
Jawahar Knowledge Center, the much hyped employment generation body of Andhra Pradesh government had also placed many of its students in Satyam after its rigorous process of registration and training. JKC has a rule of curtailing other opportunities to those who have been offered jobs. This rule created problems to those students who opted for Satyam, whose employment is in ambiguity now. It is required that JKC should try to place those recruited for Satyam in other companies. The colleges falling in to advertise 100% placements are also working on the same lines. This approach is largely resented by the student community because of companies which are now falling down every day.
Many freshers have approached through different means all the time from the date of receiving recruitment confirmation letter but are not given any proper response.
Because of absolute no response from management, a large number of freshers holded a dharna in front of Satyam Infocity on 28th January, 2008. Though management has invited us for talks, these talks couldnot yield any valid or guaranteed response from Satyam.
So again on 9th March, 2009 we did another massive agitation at the same place which also had no hearing from the management.
Vexed by the treatment of management and to make people know about our demands we have formed into a union called, Satyam Freshers Union. We affiliated ourselves with Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress so as to make a unified impact on policy related to corporate world.
We have also sent letters to the CEO and Board of Directors of Satyam, Company Law Board, Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Internal Auditors of Satyam requesting them to treat us as liability of Satyam and demanding our right of employment. We are yet to receive any reply in that regard.
Of all these consequences, we are unable to see any political party addressing our problem or demanding on behalf of us. We are also facing lot of trouble because of the government which actually took over Satyam and is not hearing or pronouncing a word about us.
At this juncture, we request you to include the following in your manifesto and see that our right to employment is protected.
1. Make fresh recruits who are given a offer letter a liability of Satyam and ensure their employment.
2. JKC should take special interest and place those who have been recruited for Satyam, in other companies.
3. Create and implement a policy in regard to job-offers and safe guard the right of employment. Also create a unique job placement agency, which shall recruit even for private companies under the aegis of government and on the lines of employment exchange so as to curtail any malpractices and future problems like that of ours.
4. Educational loans given by banks should be of interest free till the student attains job.
5. Implement and cut down the gaps in regulations for the corporate companies.
- SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
There has been many actions on part of government in regard to protection of share holders interests and company in general. But, there hasn’t been much specific action for the rights of employees or those who are given offer.
Especially, the spate of young graduates from colleges who were given job offers is much worse. These students are not given a date of joining even though they provided their acceptance to the offer. The whole process of recruitment started from 2006 and offer letters have been given till 2008 for the passing out batch. For numerical figure, freshers recruited till 2008 stands at around 6000. The 2009 graduating batch recruited figure is not yet known.
Jawahar Knowledge Center, the much hyped employment generation body of Andhra Pradesh government had also placed many of its students in Satyam after its rigorous process of registration and training. JKC has a rule of curtailing other opportunities to those who have been offered jobs. This rule created problems to those students who opted for Satyam, whose employment is in ambiguity now. It is required that JKC should try to place those recruited for Satyam in other companies. The colleges falling in to advertise 100% placements are also working on the same lines. This approach is largely resented by the student community because of companies which are now falling down every day.
Many freshers have approached through different means all the time from the date of receiving recruitment confirmation letter but are not given any proper response.
Because of absolute no response from management, a large number of freshers holded a dharna in front of Satyam Infocity on 28th January, 2008. Though management has invited us for talks, these talks couldnot yield any valid or guaranteed response from Satyam.
So again on 9th March, 2009 we did another massive agitation at the same place which also had no hearing from the management.
Vexed by the treatment of management and to make people know about our demands we have formed into a union called, Satyam Freshers Union. We affiliated ourselves with Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress so as to make a unified impact on policy related to corporate world.
We have also sent letters to the CEO and Board of Directors of Satyam, Company Law Board, Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Internal Auditors of Satyam requesting them to treat us as liability of Satyam and demanding our right of employment. We are yet to receive any reply in that regard.
Of all these consequences, we are unable to see any political party addressing our problem or demanding on behalf of us. We are also facing lot of trouble because of the government which actually took over Satyam and is not hearing or pronouncing a word about us.
At this juncture, we request you to include the following in your manifesto and see that our right to employment is protected.
1. Make fresh recruits who are given a offer letter a liability of Satyam and ensure their employment.
2. JKC should take special interest and place those who have been recruited for Satyam, in other companies.
3. Create and implement a policy in regard to job-offers and safe guard the right of employment. Also create a unique job placement agency, which shall recruit even for private companies under the aegis of government and on the lines of employment exchange so as to curtail any malpractices and future problems like that of ours.
4. Educational loans given by banks should be of interest free till the student attains job.
5. Implement and cut down the gaps in regulations for the corporate companies.
- SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
Thursday, March 12, 2009
CONTACT - SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
CONTACT SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
+91 9966 45 75 15
satyamfreshersunion@gmail.com
Convening Committee
VARUN P - Convenor
KRISHNA CHAITANYA S
NAGENDRA
SANDEEP P
NAGARJUNA K
RAKESH D
+91 9966 45 75 15
satyamfreshersunion@gmail.com
Convening Committee
VARUN P - Convenor
KRISHNA CHAITANYA S
NAGENDRA
SANDEEP P
NAGARJUNA K
RAKESH D
SATYAM FRESHERS UNION
SATYAM FRESHERS (offered jobs) problems and demands
As you are aware that there have been a series of issues which have spurt up after Satyam irregularities have come public.
One among the issues is our case in which Satyam has given us job-offerings but have not given a date of joining. It is an estimate that there shall be around 6000 of such people like us who have been given an offer of employment, are not given any date of joining though offer has been accepted by us. These offer letters date back to June, 2007.
We have been demanding a date of joining since past many months but our request is being prolonged. Because of this we are facing hardships both economically and mentally.
Because of the said reasons a new association has been formed among ourselves which would be called as SATYAM FRESHERS UNION. We affiliate ourselves with Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress.
Unfortunately issue of scam has arose which made situations much worse. Now there has been no proper reasonable response from any of the management though we have approached them twice and also held series of protests before Satyam Infocity in Hyderabad.
Hence, we demand that this issue of employment in Satyam be declared as liability of Satyam and employ us immediately.
We also state that we shall not hesitate to take up any democratic / legal action for upholding our right of employment.
We request you to take necessary action and provide employment to all those who have been given an offer immediately.
-Convening Committee
As you are aware that there have been a series of issues which have spurt up after Satyam irregularities have come public.
One among the issues is our case in which Satyam has given us job-offerings but have not given a date of joining. It is an estimate that there shall be around 6000 of such people like us who have been given an offer of employment, are not given any date of joining though offer has been accepted by us. These offer letters date back to June, 2007.
We have been demanding a date of joining since past many months but our request is being prolonged. Because of this we are facing hardships both economically and mentally.
Because of the said reasons a new association has been formed among ourselves which would be called as SATYAM FRESHERS UNION. We affiliate ourselves with Radical Democratic Corporate Employees Congress.
Unfortunately issue of scam has arose which made situations much worse. Now there has been no proper reasonable response from any of the management though we have approached them twice and also held series of protests before Satyam Infocity in Hyderabad.
Hence, we demand that this issue of employment in Satyam be declared as liability of Satyam and employ us immediately.
We also state that we shall not hesitate to take up any democratic / legal action for upholding our right of employment.
We request you to take necessary action and provide employment to all those who have been given an offer immediately.
-Convening Committee
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
REPORT ON WOMEN & DEMOCRACY MEETING
REPORT ON WOMEN & DEMOCRACY MEETING
17 February 2009
I. Introduction
The moderator, Rekha Pappu, opened The Women & Democracy meeting by asking participants to introduce themselves and give brief statements on what they hoped to accomplish at the meeting and suggest what the.
Mrudula, Dr. Reddy’s Foundation (DRF), gave an overview of the meeting, talking about women’s historical exclusion from development process and political participation, she requested participants to come together to strategise and bargain in the upcoming elections for a meaningful role to decide on our futures .
and Joe Christopher of OpenSpace, explained the OpenSpace’s goals and activities across India.
II. Issue Discussion
A. Education [Sumithra - Ankuram, Sarat babu – DRF]
Sumithra spoke about the rights of the girl child, survival rights from infancy, the rights to protection from violence, as well as the right to participation in various life activities.
Sarat Babu Vasireddy presented his paper on the status of women’s education in Andhra Pradesh (AP). He highlighted that women’s education is justified by arguing that the “educated woman” will be a “good wife and mother” rather than education leading to independence and the ability assert one’s identity.
B. Women, Identity & Rights [K. Anuradha- Safai Karmachari (SKA) Andolan, Vyjayanthi- Dalit Sthree Shakti (DSS), Gogu Syamala- Anveshi]
Anuradha spoke about SKA’s successes in liberating women from the work of cleaning dry toilets by enabling them create alternative livelihoods.
Vyjayanthi explained DSS’s demands of including Dalit women in all government positions as well as in work and education schemes.
Gogu Syamala spoke about the exclusion of Dalit women in various government schemes targeting women, such as SHG and NREG. She emphasised the need to programmatically include Dalit women in government projects.
c. Livelihoods [Usha Seethalakshmi, Lathamani - DRF, Kalyani, Nirmala Tammineni-Akshara Network, Gayatri, NREGS
Usha spoke about the effects of infrastructure and mining projects in displacing rural, poor populations, specifically the effects on women who were either left behind to take care of families and farms, or were pushed into urban settings without support and protection.
Lathamani presented the work that DRF LABS does in training women to gain livelihood skills, and pointed out that further work needs to create support systems for women who have to move to urban centres to work.
Kalyani presented her paper on the effects of environmental degradation on women’s lives such hardships of water collection, lack of sanitation and the prevalence of toxic contamination, and the dangers of biomass fuels. Nirmala presented a list of 18 demands that would ensure livelihoods for women.
Gayatri spoke about the effects of the NREG schemes, and implementation of the provisions of the act, women’s share in the works done under NREG.
d. Displacement [Rajasekhar- Action Aid Hyderabad office & Chattisgarh Group]
The group spoke about forced displacement due to violence, and the lack of support given to those displaced when they arrived in AP. Despite being here for three years, there are no job permits. Supply of ration through PDS is given.
e. Women, Crime, Laws [Teja]
Ravi Teja presented his paper on the statistics of reported crimes perpetrated against women, such as rape, harassment, dowry, and trafficking; while pointing out the shortfalls of the legal system in addressing these crimes and bringing justice to the victims.
f. Gender Budgeting
A paper reviewing the government’s gender budgeting was distributed, though there was not sufficient time for discussion.
g. Self-Help Group Charter
Copies of the SHG Charter as well as a paper on challenges and possibilities for improvement were distributed, and participants were encouraged to express their support of the SHG Charter online, though there was not sufficient time for discussion.
h. Nutrition [Sunitha – Akkshaya Foundation]
Sunitha spoke about the fact that despite nutritional supplement programs spearheaded by the government, there is widespread malnutrition amongst mothers and children. She pointed out that the prevalence of fluoride needs to be further examined because it accumulates in the body and causes bone deformity.
J. Women Participation in Panchayat Raj Institutions [Shyamala]
Shyamala spoke about the various programs put forth by the Panchayat Raj Institutes to empower women at the local level and some of the challenges that women leaders face within their communities.
III Strategy Discussion
A survey of participants resulted in a majority decision to draft a manifesto based on the afternoon’s discussion, with possibilities for revision at a later date. The majority agreed that the manifesto would endorse a small number of demands (five to ten), which would be popularly acceptable and politically viable. It was also agreed that the demands should be inclusive enough that any woman in that state could identify with and “own” at least one of the demands.
Questions of dissemination and expansion/organization of a supportive constituency would be addressed in later meetings.
Preliminary list of recommendations to be included in the manifesto—(please email additional recommendations that you wish to be considered for inclusion in the manifesto):
1. Secure and sustainable livelihoods for all women in rural areas through the provision of job cards to all women and 150 guaranteed workdays per woman.
2. Clear policy on providing basic amenities (ration cards, water, electricity, access to primary healthcare and primary education) at receiving sites to all displaced people and migrants.
3. Thirty-three percent reservations for women in all elected bodies from the panchayat level to the legislative assembly and ministerial positions. Capacity building to women aspirants and incumbants to panchayats should be an ongoing thing.
4. Implement the new education bill to the fullest extent and make education compulsory up to the age of eighteen. 100% government subsidised compulsory education for all girls through intermediate level in a school of girl’s choice. All the girls irrespective of caste and economic status should be covered under this policy.
5. Ensure implementation of Domestic Violence Act by Providing dedicated police control rooms to address cases of violence against women; provide protection and financial support to women victims; reduce delays in investigation and prosecution
6. Provide universal health care services to all; bring all health services, including Rreproductive health and child vaccination, under Arogya Sri; Upgrade PHCs to include inpatient and emergency care in rural areas and provide better incentives for doctors to work in rural areas.
- Mrudula Vemulapati & Joe Christopher
17 February 2009
I. Introduction
The moderator, Rekha Pappu, opened The Women & Democracy meeting by asking participants to introduce themselves and give brief statements on what they hoped to accomplish at the meeting and suggest what the.
Mrudula, Dr. Reddy’s Foundation (DRF), gave an overview of the meeting, talking about women’s historical exclusion from development process and political participation, she requested participants to come together to strategise and bargain in the upcoming elections for a meaningful role to decide on our futures .
and Joe Christopher of OpenSpace, explained the OpenSpace’s goals and activities across India.
II. Issue Discussion
A. Education [Sumithra - Ankuram, Sarat babu – DRF]
Sumithra spoke about the rights of the girl child, survival rights from infancy, the rights to protection from violence, as well as the right to participation in various life activities.
Sarat Babu Vasireddy presented his paper on the status of women’s education in Andhra Pradesh (AP). He highlighted that women’s education is justified by arguing that the “educated woman” will be a “good wife and mother” rather than education leading to independence and the ability assert one’s identity.
B. Women, Identity & Rights [K. Anuradha- Safai Karmachari (SKA) Andolan, Vyjayanthi- Dalit Sthree Shakti (DSS), Gogu Syamala- Anveshi]
Anuradha spoke about SKA’s successes in liberating women from the work of cleaning dry toilets by enabling them create alternative livelihoods.
Vyjayanthi explained DSS’s demands of including Dalit women in all government positions as well as in work and education schemes.
Gogu Syamala spoke about the exclusion of Dalit women in various government schemes targeting women, such as SHG and NREG. She emphasised the need to programmatically include Dalit women in government projects.
c. Livelihoods [Usha Seethalakshmi, Lathamani - DRF, Kalyani, Nirmala Tammineni-Akshara Network, Gayatri, NREGS
Usha spoke about the effects of infrastructure and mining projects in displacing rural, poor populations, specifically the effects on women who were either left behind to take care of families and farms, or were pushed into urban settings without support and protection.
Lathamani presented the work that DRF LABS does in training women to gain livelihood skills, and pointed out that further work needs to create support systems for women who have to move to urban centres to work.
Kalyani presented her paper on the effects of environmental degradation on women’s lives such hardships of water collection, lack of sanitation and the prevalence of toxic contamination, and the dangers of biomass fuels. Nirmala presented a list of 18 demands that would ensure livelihoods for women.
Gayatri spoke about the effects of the NREG schemes, and implementation of the provisions of the act, women’s share in the works done under NREG.
d. Displacement [Rajasekhar- Action Aid Hyderabad office & Chattisgarh Group]
The group spoke about forced displacement due to violence, and the lack of support given to those displaced when they arrived in AP. Despite being here for three years, there are no job permits. Supply of ration through PDS is given.
e. Women, Crime, Laws [Teja]
Ravi Teja presented his paper on the statistics of reported crimes perpetrated against women, such as rape, harassment, dowry, and trafficking; while pointing out the shortfalls of the legal system in addressing these crimes and bringing justice to the victims.
f. Gender Budgeting
A paper reviewing the government’s gender budgeting was distributed, though there was not sufficient time for discussion.
g. Self-Help Group Charter
Copies of the SHG Charter as well as a paper on challenges and possibilities for improvement were distributed, and participants were encouraged to express their support of the SHG Charter online, though there was not sufficient time for discussion.
h. Nutrition [Sunitha – Akkshaya Foundation]
Sunitha spoke about the fact that despite nutritional supplement programs spearheaded by the government, there is widespread malnutrition amongst mothers and children. She pointed out that the prevalence of fluoride needs to be further examined because it accumulates in the body and causes bone deformity.
J. Women Participation in Panchayat Raj Institutions [Shyamala]
Shyamala spoke about the various programs put forth by the Panchayat Raj Institutes to empower women at the local level and some of the challenges that women leaders face within their communities.
III Strategy Discussion
A survey of participants resulted in a majority decision to draft a manifesto based on the afternoon’s discussion, with possibilities for revision at a later date. The majority agreed that the manifesto would endorse a small number of demands (five to ten), which would be popularly acceptable and politically viable. It was also agreed that the demands should be inclusive enough that any woman in that state could identify with and “own” at least one of the demands.
Questions of dissemination and expansion/organization of a supportive constituency would be addressed in later meetings.
Preliminary list of recommendations to be included in the manifesto—(please email additional recommendations that you wish to be considered for inclusion in the manifesto):
1. Secure and sustainable livelihoods for all women in rural areas through the provision of job cards to all women and 150 guaranteed workdays per woman.
2. Clear policy on providing basic amenities (ration cards, water, electricity, access to primary healthcare and primary education) at receiving sites to all displaced people and migrants.
3. Thirty-three percent reservations for women in all elected bodies from the panchayat level to the legislative assembly and ministerial positions. Capacity building to women aspirants and incumbants to panchayats should be an ongoing thing.
4. Implement the new education bill to the fullest extent and make education compulsory up to the age of eighteen. 100% government subsidised compulsory education for all girls through intermediate level in a school of girl’s choice. All the girls irrespective of caste and economic status should be covered under this policy.
5. Ensure implementation of Domestic Violence Act by Providing dedicated police control rooms to address cases of violence against women; provide protection and financial support to women victims; reduce delays in investigation and prosecution
6. Provide universal health care services to all; bring all health services, including Rreproductive health and child vaccination, under Arogya Sri; Upgrade PHCs to include inpatient and emergency care in rural areas and provide better incentives for doctors to work in rural areas.
- Mrudula Vemulapati & Joe Christopher
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Discussion - 17-02-2009 - WOMEN & DEMOCRACY
Dear All
Globally women are celebrating 20 years of advancement in women’s rights since the Beijing Conference on the Declaration of Women’s Rights. This is the right time to bring demands of women to the attention of the political parties and the public. Fielding of women candidates by all political parties, announcing free sops to women, Abhaya Hastham- pension scheme for women, pavala waddi, have made it crystal clear that women are considered an important vote bank in the coming elections.
Women are also using their power of vote to bargain for housing, loans, etc.. and can influence this election. In this election, women will come out in more numbers as political candidates. But this is just the beginning. Today the question is not about more women candidates or exercising their vote. The question is how do we influence and participate in the decision making process itself. We are at the end of the decade, in which women and girls have paid a heavy price for sexual assault, rape and violence. Women are faced with a myriad of problems including rising food prices, economic crisis, losing jobs, losing lands for infrastructure projects, gender based violence etc.
It is perhaps right time for us to review this decade long journey of women’s rights and put forth our demands to the political parties. The solution for women’s problem is not just fielding more women candidates in the elections. In order make a difference with our votes, we need to create access and participate in the decision making process in determining our political and economic future of the state. Hence, we need to get together, talk with one another, create discourse on issues and put up our own agenda.
Academics, NGOs, activist groups, students and employees are requested to participate in this discussion. Together we can sustain this group through this upcoming election and beyond to engage meaningfully on the issue of women and democracy. I hope the group will create informed discourse that will go a long way in strengthening women right’s movement.
We invite those participants working on specific issues to initiate a discussion in their niche area and help the group to brainstorm. In the second half of the meeting, the participants will join groups that will work on education, health, livelihoods, legal aspect, etc to prepare a charter of demands to the political parties for incorporating in their election manifestos.
The “Women Manifesto” which is prepared after consultations will be released to the public on March 8th 2009
This program is being organised by OPEN SPACE with coordination of Ms. Mrudula and Mr. Joe Christopher at Dr. Reddy's Foundation office (Near Learnium School, MLA Colony, Road No.12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad). On behalf of Openspace forum we, Radical Democrats invite you to the meeting on “Women and Democracy” to be held on 17th February 2009.
For Further information please dont hesitate to call Ms. Mrudula-9490192119 or mail her to mrudulav2000@yahoo.com
- Radicals
Globally women are celebrating 20 years of advancement in women’s rights since the Beijing Conference on the Declaration of Women’s Rights. This is the right time to bring demands of women to the attention of the political parties and the public. Fielding of women candidates by all political parties, announcing free sops to women, Abhaya Hastham- pension scheme for women, pavala waddi, have made it crystal clear that women are considered an important vote bank in the coming elections.
Women are also using their power of vote to bargain for housing, loans, etc.. and can influence this election. In this election, women will come out in more numbers as political candidates. But this is just the beginning. Today the question is not about more women candidates or exercising their vote. The question is how do we influence and participate in the decision making process itself. We are at the end of the decade, in which women and girls have paid a heavy price for sexual assault, rape and violence. Women are faced with a myriad of problems including rising food prices, economic crisis, losing jobs, losing lands for infrastructure projects, gender based violence etc.
It is perhaps right time for us to review this decade long journey of women’s rights and put forth our demands to the political parties. The solution for women’s problem is not just fielding more women candidates in the elections. In order make a difference with our votes, we need to create access and participate in the decision making process in determining our political and economic future of the state. Hence, we need to get together, talk with one another, create discourse on issues and put up our own agenda.
Academics, NGOs, activist groups, students and employees are requested to participate in this discussion. Together we can sustain this group through this upcoming election and beyond to engage meaningfully on the issue of women and democracy. I hope the group will create informed discourse that will go a long way in strengthening women right’s movement.
We invite those participants working on specific issues to initiate a discussion in their niche area and help the group to brainstorm. In the second half of the meeting, the participants will join groups that will work on education, health, livelihoods, legal aspect, etc to prepare a charter of demands to the political parties for incorporating in their election manifestos.
The “Women Manifesto” which is prepared after consultations will be released to the public on March 8th 2009
This program is being organised by OPEN SPACE with coordination of Ms. Mrudula and Mr. Joe Christopher at Dr. Reddy's Foundation office (Near Learnium School, MLA Colony, Road No.12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad). On behalf of Openspace forum we, Radical Democrats invite you to the meeting on “Women and Democracy” to be held on 17th February 2009.
For Further information please dont hesitate to call Ms. Mrudula-9490192119 or mail her to mrudulav2000@yahoo.com
- Radicals
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
letter- Shanker Suman
My own experiences in the quest for a fitting long-term career has been like sitting atop a fence of sharp stakes.
With a deulge of reports from industry circles flowing in, that warn about massive job cuts here in India, one really wonders what ever has happened to all those Billions of earnings made by corporates during the recent boom of Business cycle.
There appears to be hardly any reason for the corporates to grumble about cash crunch, especially at a time when the 'Top Heads' have fattened themselves with huge amounts of IPO money, - not to mention the more than generous follow-up offerings of Preferencial allotments to their 'Favoured Few' - a lavish serving showered on the 'corporate chumchas', by dipping their hands into the coffers filled by PUBLIC money; while the recipes of 'Cook-Books' provided the most exotic variety for a truly sumptuous 'fill', even as the the flood gates of 'BOOK-BUILDING' route were thrown open by our very government.
And, suddenly Ayn-Rand, her ideologies of 'free market' principles seem to have lost sanctity, Karl Marx's works are flying off the shelves, Obama goes chasing behind the scoundrels ranting and panting to grab back the hefty unwarranted Billion-Dollar Bonuses that were liberal 'SELF_SERVICE' buffets, which buffeted the gullible public and the workforce instead!.
'FREE MARKETS' indeed!!
One wonders how the market became the ally of 'Corporate Executives' to help them 'go the extra mile' at making themselves a series of 'Rags to Riches' hits - virtually for 'FREE'!!! (Money for nothing....Dire Straits).
In essence the public and the workforce has been derided by the arrogant 'Coporate Top Heads', their derisive laughter yet to die down as a chukle.
I would like to capture Their ill-gotten weath and their unsrupulous actions in very simple words with the title 'LOGIC OF NONSENSE - The Jam within':
Pardon me:
I beg thee
For a loaf of bread
Neatly sliced - End to End
For, I like it
With thy butter
For the Toast of 'IT'!
As long as we have gullible investors; and a quivering workforce whose faintest 'RAISING-OF-VOICES' against such practices are swiftly shut by the sluice gates of HR hands, 'We The Living' are just waiting in Gulags as 'We The Dying'!!.
I found a very thought provoking article written by Rajiv Vij - 'JOY OF EFFORTLESS LIVING' ( TOI Sep 7/2005).
Please see attachment.
I have re-captured Rajiv Vij's thoughts in my own words poetically though as shown below:
'Butterfly'
It tastes each flower with care
A little here and a little there
Nectar, Nectar everywhere
wanders around with no fan-fare
Dances merrily in the air
To any child it's so Dear
And every soul does it cheer
But flits away as you go near
Flies high with no fear
Its Clap Of Wings You Never Hear!
- Shanker Suman
(*The opinions expressed here are not of Radical Democrats and are completely authors own)
With a deulge of reports from industry circles flowing in, that warn about massive job cuts here in India, one really wonders what ever has happened to all those Billions of earnings made by corporates during the recent boom of Business cycle.
There appears to be hardly any reason for the corporates to grumble about cash crunch, especially at a time when the 'Top Heads' have fattened themselves with huge amounts of IPO money, - not to mention the more than generous follow-up offerings of Preferencial allotments to their 'Favoured Few' - a lavish serving showered on the 'corporate chumchas', by dipping their hands into the coffers filled by PUBLIC money; while the recipes of 'Cook-Books' provided the most exotic variety for a truly sumptuous 'fill', even as the the flood gates of 'BOOK-BUILDING' route were thrown open by our very government.
And, suddenly Ayn-Rand, her ideologies of 'free market' principles seem to have lost sanctity, Karl Marx's works are flying off the shelves, Obama goes chasing behind the scoundrels ranting and panting to grab back the hefty unwarranted Billion-Dollar Bonuses that were liberal 'SELF_SERVICE' buffets, which buffeted the gullible public and the workforce instead!.
'FREE MARKETS' indeed!!
One wonders how the market became the ally of 'Corporate Executives' to help them 'go the extra mile' at making themselves a series of 'Rags to Riches' hits - virtually for 'FREE'!!! (Money for nothing....Dire Straits).
In essence the public and the workforce has been derided by the arrogant 'Coporate Top Heads', their derisive laughter yet to die down as a chukle.
I would like to capture Their ill-gotten weath and their unsrupulous actions in very simple words with the title 'LOGIC OF NONSENSE - The Jam within':
Pardon me:
I beg thee
For a loaf of bread
Neatly sliced - End to End
For, I like it
With thy butter
For the Toast of 'IT'!
As long as we have gullible investors; and a quivering workforce whose faintest 'RAISING-OF-VOICES' against such practices are swiftly shut by the sluice gates of HR hands, 'We The Living' are just waiting in Gulags as 'We The Dying'!!.
I found a very thought provoking article written by Rajiv Vij - 'JOY OF EFFORTLESS LIVING' ( TOI Sep 7/2005).
Please see attachment.
I have re-captured Rajiv Vij's thoughts in my own words poetically though as shown below:
'Butterfly'
It tastes each flower with care
A little here and a little there
Nectar, Nectar everywhere
wanders around with no fan-fare
Dances merrily in the air
To any child it's so Dear
And every soul does it cheer
But flits away as you go near
Flies high with no fear
Its Clap Of Wings You Never Hear!
- Shanker Suman
(*The opinions expressed here are not of Radical Democrats and are completely authors own)
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Poem Contributed by a new member
Twilight of Dawn
Curled Up in a hammock
Knotted between boughs of Oaks
I lie in – Beside lake Enoch
Like gentle taps on doors of eyes
I hear :
The sounds of tweets
Of Birds o’er trees
Brushing my face
Is soft spring breeze
Awoken Thus :
I see the red sun rise
Above the hills, and
through the skies
As vanishing mist -
Like gossamer spread
That drapes the icy waters
But fast begins to fade
To reveal a row of skiffs
That flit upon waves
To net a pile of plaice
Twittering squirrels soon awake
When ducks and drakes
With fluttering wings
Start their swift water skates
To the tune of larks
that dart away
like a wave
I Bow in reverence
To the Twilight of dawn
Descending from slumber
To trot back home
Holding wide open doors
That let in golden rays
I sit on the floor
To chant my prayer of Hope!
- Shanker Suman
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
SATYAM FRESHERS AGITATION
Fresh recruited students from Colleges who have obtained job offers from Satyam have staged an agitation at Satyam Infocity, (CLL Campus, Hyderabad) today i.e., 28th January 2009.
Around 300 people from different States of the country, who have been given job offerings by Satyam have participated in the program
There are around 7000 people who have been offered a job by Satyam and have not been given a specific joining date, though other formalities such as NASSCOM registration, other documentation has been completed.
There are instances of specific cases where students have been waiting for joining since 2007. Now as the total situation of company is in peril, these fresh techies demanded a clarification and also claimed the management negligence in dealing with their case. Freshers demanded a clarity in the issue of offerings by the management and demand the job as they were kept in waiting for a long time.
J K C – Jawahar Knowledge Centers’ (AP) techies (Satyam recruited) participated in large number as they are the students who can’t turn up for other jobs because of the binding JKC policy.
In the afternoon though the H. R. Department has initiated talks with the representatives of these freshers but has not provided any clarity.
Around 300 people from different States of the country, who have been given job offerings by Satyam have participated in the program
There are around 7000 people who have been offered a job by Satyam and have not been given a specific joining date, though other formalities such as NASSCOM registration, other documentation has been completed.
There are instances of specific cases where students have been waiting for joining since 2007. Now as the total situation of company is in peril, these fresh techies demanded a clarification and also claimed the management negligence in dealing with their case. Freshers demanded a clarity in the issue of offerings by the management and demand the job as they were kept in waiting for a long time.
J K C – Jawahar Knowledge Centers’ (AP) techies (Satyam recruited) participated in large number as they are the students who can’t turn up for other jobs because of the binding JKC policy.
In the afternoon though the H. R. Department has initiated talks with the representatives of these freshers but has not provided any clarity.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Convening Committee
Ravi Teja Padiri
Convenor
9866116176
Rahul Penumatsa
Co-Convenor
9885714441
Convening Committee
Veena Madapalli – Maveric Systems
Anil – I-gate technologies
Bharati – Satyam Computers
Vikas Narahari – Shoba Renaissance Information Technology
Geetha – Accenture
Dimple Yelisetti – Maveric Systems
Bani Davuri – 24/7
Anjani Kumar – Integrate Constructions
Sri Harsha Vemulapalli - Cognizant
Srinivas A – BWW
Ganesh – Powermech
Convenor
9866116176
Rahul Penumatsa
Co-Convenor
9885714441
Convening Committee
Veena Madapalli – Maveric Systems
Anil – I-gate technologies
Bharati – Satyam Computers
Vikas Narahari – Shoba Renaissance Information Technology
Geetha – Accenture
Dimple Yelisetti – Maveric Systems
Bani Davuri – 24/7
Anjani Kumar – Integrate Constructions
Sri Harsha Vemulapalli - Cognizant
Srinivas A – BWW
Ganesh – Powermech
Formation
PRESS RELEASE
In view of the present existing crisis in the Indian corporate sector, we a group of employees from different corporate companies of India, working in the country and abroad have felt that it is necessary to bring together all the employees in private sector and demand for their rights through a common platform. We affiliate ourselves with the political group called “Radical Democrats” headed by Mr. Sarat Babu V.
Though this exercise is being worked for the past many months, we have been postponing it to discuss ideas and frame of work. But it is now inevitable for us at this point of time where employment of many workers of the corporate world especially in India is in peril.
To have an impact with the name itself for a revolutionary thought through a democratic process, we shall be calling our organization as RADICAL DEMOCRATIC CORPORATE EMPLOYEES CONGRESS. In short we call ourselves as “Radical Democrats”. A convening committee is formed with around employees from twenty companies in it.
The eruption of Satyam financial irregularities has a major impact on our decision to come to the public. We feel that it is now necessary for the employees to speak in public about the problems and difficulties. We have evolved an action plan, which would be legal and political to protect the prospects of employees and there by companies. We shall utilize all possible means to pressure the authorities to consider the stand of employees in a decision with regard to corporate companies.
Satyam episode is only peripheral display of the irregularities in corporate sector and the crust would be slowly exposed. In case of Satyam, state interference is welcome, but the history of the business association of the appointed directors with Satyam makes us question the sanity. SEBI role since the Satyam trail to take over Maytas in seeing the legality of the heavy stock transactions by large investors is questionable. If a few large share transacts are tracked, it would clearly be a witness of “Insiders trading”. The non-action of investigative agencies over the other top management individuals other than who have confessed seems that some lobby is side tracking the investigative process. Especially, the role of individual directors who have been claiming heavy remunerations and trying to fade themselves out the scam has to be immediately curtailed by the investigators. The non-seizure of assets of the individuals, whose actions are questionable in this scandal, may lead to illegal liquidation. We have serious doubts in the government’s action which is not seriously considering the Maytas role in the scandal. We also demand a serious and democratic enquiry into the financial irregularities rather than a dubious and grace saving statements by the government heads. The interference of leaders from major political parties trying to protect the accused is resented.
- Radicals
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