SHILLONG, Oct 28: The All Jaintia Muster Roll Workers Union has issued an ultimatum to the Meghalaya government, demanding clearance of pending arrears for muster roll workers from October 2, 2023, to December 31, 2024, in line with the Minimum Wages Act, 1948.

Addressing the media after a meeting with Commissioner & Secretary in-charge Finance, Vijay Kumar, on Tuesday, union adviser Khro L. Pariat said the organisation had served an ultimatum to the government, seeking a clear statement on whether it would release the arrears or override the provisions of the Minimum Wages Act.

While the Commissioner Secretary assured that a resolution would be provided within one month, the union has given the government one week to issue a written clarification.

Pariat stressed that the union does not wish to resort to agitation or confrontation, but is prepared to explore all legal and democratic options, including moving the High Court of Meghalaya, to safeguard the rights of the workers.

The union has called for a meeting of all muster roll workers on November 3 to decide on the next course of action, which may include agitation, a work stoppage, or legal intervention.

The union is also pressing for the revision of the Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA), which has reportedly not been updated despite rising inflation.

“We invite and appeal to all muster roll workers to attend the meeting so that we can collectively decide. If the government fails to act, we will move to the court of law, as the High Court of Meghalaya is the right platform to interpret the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, regarding floor rate,” said Pariat.

Expressing disappointment over the government’s inaction, Pariat said the union is awaiting a notification revising the VDA and is seeking further dialogue with the authorities to resolve the long-pending issue.