The impasse between Toyota and its workers continues

Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s labour woes continue; the management and the workers union had a meeting last week presided by the Karnataka labour department. It seems, both parties are yet to reach a consensus, however, the relay hunger strike by workers continues.

"Deliberations are still on. We have called a meeting again on Tuesday. Hopefully, we may reach some settlement that day," Additional Labour Commissioner J T Jinkalappa told PTI. 

Toyota Kirloskar Employees Union Joint Secretary N Raghu said: "Meeting could not reach any conclusion even today; officials have called for a meeting again on Tuesday." 

"Management seems to be adamant on suspension of 30 employees. We are also very firm on our demand that suspension should we withdrawn. On undertaking issue, there seems to be some flexibility," he added. 

Toyota had announced a lockout on March 16, following failure between the management and the workers over wage negotiations. However, the lockout was lifted on March 24, but the workers refused to resume work objecting to the suspension of 30 workers and the good conduct undertaking they had to abide by. 

Toyota is currently operating its plant with 1,200 supervisory staff, 800 apprentice staff and 400 contract workers. The Japanese car major is going ahead with its plan as announced at the Auto Expo by launching the Etios Cross on May 7. The Corolla Altis will follow the Etios Cross and may be launched by July.

Source: ET