Srirangam women damage under-construction TASMAC shop

It is said that around 400 families were residing in Panchakaranai near the yatri nivas in Srirangam. A small shop-like structure was being built from last week. When the residents enquired, they were informed that a welding shop was coming up at the site. However, when more than 80 per cent of the work was over, the residents found out that the officials were planning to open a TASMAC outlet. 

The information spread like wildfire among the residents and around 11.30 am on Tuesday, over a 100-strong group, mostly women, reached the spot and damaged the entire structure. Police rushed to the spot and pacified the residents. Following an assurance from the officers, the women dispersed from the spot.

Meanwhile, the employees of the TASMAC outlets, which were closed recently. staged a human chain protest. Over 1,500 staff participated in the state-level protest held from the New Passport Office to Thennur Uzhavar Sandhai grounds in Tiruchy on Tuesday. 

Members associated with the Tamil Nadu Government TASMAC Employees Union (TNGTEU) urged the state government to provide alternative employment opportunities for the existing staff of closed units. 

K Balasubramanian, special president of All Indian State Government Employees Federation (AISGEF), said, “As the TASMAC shops are being closed by the government, which may leave the TASMAC employees jobless, state should provide alternative employment in the other departments according to their seniority and educational qualifications.” He also stated that the association shall continue to stage protests until the government addresses their grievances.