Shiv Sena (UBT) Demands Reinstatement of Illegally Terminated Nestlé Workers in Goa

Shiv Sena (UBT) Demands Reinstatement of Illegally Terminated Nestlé Workers in Goa

Bicholim, July 02, 2025: In a powerful display of solidarity, a Shiv Sena (UBT) Goa delegation, led by Rajya Pramukh Jitesh Kamat, met with agitating workers of Nestlé India today at Maulinguem. The workers have been on an indefinite strike for the past three months, demanding the reinstatement of colleagues allegedly terminated illegally by the company. The delegation included key members of Shiv Sena (UBT) Information & Publicity Coordinator Pratik Shirodkar, Bicholim Taluka Vice President Gangesh Gawas, and Shivsainik Deepesh Naik.

Union leader Anand Shirodkar briefed the delegation on the ongoing struggle, stating that since the post-COVID period, Nestlé has systematically targeted and removed active union members. This, he claimed, is a deliberate attempt to dismantle the workers’ union and suppress unionization efforts. Despite a court ruling in favor of the terminated workers—ordering their reinstatement—Nestlé has failed to comply, an action the union labels as clear contempt of court.

The workers also highlighted a troubling lack of support from the labour department. Although the Assistant Labour Commissioner promised to arrange a joint meeting with Nestlé management, no progress has been made. The issue was escalated to the Labour Commissioner, Labour Secretary, and even the Chief Minister—who explicitly directed the Assistant Commissioner to act—yet the officer has taken no concrete steps. The workers allege possible collusion between the Assistant Labour Commissioner and Nestlé management, further compounding their plight.

While Addressing the media, Rajya Pramukh Jitesh Kamat expressed deep concern over the illegal terminations and condemned Nestlé’s defiance of judicial orders.

“It is extremely unfortunate that our youth are being thrown out of their jobs illegally. Even more shocking is that a multinational company is refusing to follow judicial orders,” he said.

Kamat also lambasted the state administration for its inaction, calling it a “complete failure” when a government official disregards the Chief Minister’s directives.

“This is not just administrative negligence; it is aiding and abetting illegal actions,” he added.

Kamat issued a stern ultimatum to both Nestlé and government officials: if the terminated workers are not reinstated within 15 days, Shiv Sena (UBT) will organize a massive protest at Azad Maidan, joined by the workers and their families. He emphasized that the party stands in unwavering solidarity with the striking workers and is prepared to escalate its agitation until justice is delivered.

The visit underscores Shiv Sena (UBT)’s commitment to championing the cause of the Nestlé workers, spotlighting both corporate overreach and administrative lapses. As the deadline looms, all eyes are on Nestlé and the labour department to see if they will act—or face the consequences.

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