Finally, the Contract Workers of West Bengal circle win the battle for gratuity claim.

The struggle of casual and contract labourers in West Bengal has once again brought victory. In Jalpaiguri division under Siliguri BA, Com. Mihir Mitra, who retired at the age of 55 years, and Smt. Abha Sen, widow of late Com. Sukanta Sen, both active members of the Red Flag Union – BSNL Casual Mazdoor Union, have secured their rightful gratuity after a prolonged fight. Initially, their gratuity claims were outrightly rejected at the local level. Determined not to bow down, the union lodged a complaint with the Central Assistant Labour Commissioner in October 2021. As per gratuity rules, Rs. 72,590/- was due to Smt. Abha Sen and Rs. 94,098/- to Com. Mihir Mitra. Though the Labour Commissioner passed time-bound orders to the contractor for payment, the contractor deliberately refused to comply. Subsequently, the Commissioner directed the DM of Jalpaiguri to ensure payment, but even then the contractor defied the order. 

Undeterred, the union carried forward the legal battle for nearly four years. Finally, on 18.08.2025, the contractor was compelled by court to deposit the gratuity dues directly into the bank accounts of the workers. This hard-won battle proves once again that workers’ unity and perseverance are the ultimate weapon. The success of BSNLCMU, Jalpaiguri District, stands as a shining example for all – that if the struggle is carried on with determination at the grassroots level, no demand is unachievable. Red Salute to the comrades who stood firm in the fight since 2021 and turned this long struggle into a decisive victory.