University of Hyderabad contract staff launch indefinite protest over labour rights

Contract workers at the University of Hyderabad have launched an indefinite protest demanding equal pay, abolition of the contract system, and proper implementation of EPF and ESI benefits. They allege that new labour codes and contractor policies have worsened job security and working conditions.

Hyderabad: The University of Hyderabad (UoH) contract workers launched an indefinite protest demanding the administration to fulfil their long-pending demands, including “equal pay for equal work”, on the university campus here on Tuesday.

The implementation of the new labour codes, the protesters said, pushed contractual employees into a crisis by weakening job security, reducing workplace protections, and undermining established labour rights. The workers alleged that the new legal framework altered employment conditions that adversely affected their livelihoods.

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Stating that the situation intensified following the appointment of a new contractor, the workers claimed that the contractor used the provisions of the new labour codes to implement policies that stripped contractual employees of their existing rights and benefits. They argued that these changes have worsened working conditions and increased insecurity among the workforce.

Protesters demanded the administration to abolish the “exploitative” contract system and regularise their services. Apart from equal pay for equal work, the contract staff wanted proper implementation of EPF and ESI benefits, fair working hours and overtime compensation.

Accountability for workplace accidents and deaths, wage revision based on experience and seniority, compassionate support for workers’ families and accessible healthcare and insurance coverage were among the other demands.

The protesting workers said that they will continue their indefinite agitation until the university administration addresses their demands, safeguards their rights, and ensures fair and dignified working conditions.