HMT employees, retired staff, meet Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy over pending dues
2 min read
Bengaluru: The serving and retired employees of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) met Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, at the HMT office in Bengaluru to discuss their grievances and submitted a memorandum seeking resolution.
During the meeting, employees highlighted issues such as unpaid salaries, gratuity, provident fund and other pending benefits.
“We are meeting Union Minister for Heavy Industries for the first time in our life, and we thank you for giving us this opportunity,” they said.
Retired employees voiced their struggles, saying, “It has been several years since our retirement, yet the benefits owed to us remain unpaid. While some have pursued legal battles, many others cannot afford to do so. We request you to address these issues on priority.”
The employees expressed that they were unable to afford basic medical expenses.
“The company owes us Rs 30 to Rs 40 lakh each in terminal benefits, which we have been fighting for over the past five to six years. We urge you to ensure this payment is made,” they said.
Additionally, they requested the minister to prevent the closure of HMT.
“If closure becomes unavoidable, HMT should be merged with companies like BHEL, BEL.or BEML, and alternative employment opportunities should be provided for its employees,” they appealed.
They further emphasised, “We hope you address our grievances within a specific timeframe, as our lives have become increasingly difficult without these dues.”
Minister’s Response
After listening to the employees, Minister Kumaraswamy assured them that their issues were already under consideration.
“We will explore solutions to clear Rs 361 crore pending dues owed to employees. I will discuss this matter with senior officials in the ministry and ensure it is addressed,” he said.
“Reviving HMT is one challenge, but ensuring the settlement of dues for both retired and current employees is another. I assure you of my sincere efforts in resolving these matters,” he added.
The minister also highlighted the government’s broader efforts under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“We are working towards revitalising Public Sector Enterprises as part of the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. These efforts align with the PM’s vision for a developed India,” he said.
Kumaraswamy pointed out ongoing revival efforts for plants such as Vizag Steel, VISL Bhadravati and the Salem Steel Plant.
“We are committed to breathing new life into industries facing challenges across the country,” he said, encouraging employees to remain hopeful.
Employees from various HMT units nationwide, both retired and active, attended the meeting and expressed their gratitude to the minister for taking the time to listen to their grievances.
– Team Mysoorunews
Mysooru News
