NLC directed to engage unskilled workers who gave away lands

Justice S.M. Subramaniam while disposing the plea moved by NLC Jeeva Oppantha Thozhilalargal Sangam, Cuddalore, said, “In view of the counter-affidavit filed, the respondents are bound to implement the agreed conditions in respect of engagement of 50 per cent of the land evictees. It is for the respondents to monitor the implementation of these agreements in its letter and spirit.” 

The petitioner had sought to quash the tender notification issued on July 4 and its corrigendum on July 19 and August 8 issued by the NLC Ltd related to engagement of contract workers. They had also sought for a direction to engage the existing contract employees and persons from families who had given up their lands for the formation of NLC. 

Senior Counsel P. Wilson who appeared on behalf of the association submitted that employment opportunity was ensured to the land evictees by way of an agreement between the company and the representatives of the land evictees signed in 2009. As per the agreement, at least one member of the family of the land evictees should be engaged as contract labourer, he said.