Kerala govt. seeks feedback from depts. over regularisation of 248 temporary workers at Kulathupuzha RPL

The Kerala government has sought feedback from relevant departments regarding the regularisation of 248 dependents of Sri Lankan repatriates who are currently employed as temporary workers at the Rehabilitation Plantations Limited (RPL) in Kulathupuzha, Kollam.

Labour Minister Bindhu Krishna informed the Assembly that the process will comply with the conditions stipulated by the RPL. Addressing a submission raised by Punalur MLA C. Ajayaprasad, the Minister pointed out that the public sector company has been operating at a loss for several years. She said that the management has already been informed that the recommendation for permanent placement will be actively considered as soon as the financial situation of the company improves.

The objective

RPL was originally established with the specific objective of employing and rehabilitating Indian-origin individuals who returned from Sri Lanka. The Minister explained that permanent appointments to the ‘worker’ category posts within the company were strictly reserved for members of these rehabilitated families. While all eligible repatriates from the initial families have already been provided with employment, a lack of new eligible candidates led the company to hire their India-born dependents to fill workforce shortages. Ms. Krishna also noted that it was during the Oommen Chandy government’s tenure that employment was extended to a third member of these families.

Acknowledging the hardships faced by the estate workers, including women labourers, and the dilapidated condition of their residential quarters (layams), Ms. Krishna criticised the previous administration for failing to take compassionate action on their behalf. Concluding her response, the Minister assured the Assembly that the government is fully aware of the ground realities and will explore all legal possibilities to make a favourable decision that protects the welfare of the workers.