INTUC opposes BJP government’s ‘decision’ to privatise Singareni coal mines

Hyderabad: The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) vehemently criticised the BJP government on recent reports that the Central government has decided to privatise the Singareni coal mines.

“This move threatens the livelihoods of thousands of workers and their families, undermines decades of progress in labour rights, and jeopardises the strategic interests of our nation and its wealth,” the union members said in a public statement on Saturday.

The public notice contained statements by B Janak Prasad, secretary general of Singareni Coal Mine Labour Union; RD Chandra Shekar, general secretary of INTUC; K Jagan Mohan Reddy and MB Vijay Yadav vice president of Union Strongly who condemned the privatisation of Singareni Coal Mines.

“Singareni coal mines have been a cornerstone of India’s energy sector and a vital source of employment for Telangana region. The proposed privatisation is not just a blow to the workers but also to the local communities that depend on the stability and security provided by these public sector enterprises. The transition to private ownership risks the erosion of workers’ rights, job security, and fair wages, as profit motives take precedence over the well-being of employees,” the notice said.

The INTUC members said that privatisation will lead to mass unemployment, destruction of the environment and displacement of indigenous and tribal communities and that could compromise safety standards, environmental regulations, and the long-term sustainability of coal mining operations.

The public sector enterprises have historically been committed to upholding rigorous safety and environmental protocols, ensuring that operations are conducted responsibly and ethically, the INTUC members said and urged the BJP government to reconsider the decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including trade unions.