Pakistani workers' strike wins victory

Submitted by martin on 31 July, 2010 - 6:27 Author: Farooq Tariq (Labour Party of Pakistan)

On 29 July the nine-day strike by power-loom workers in Faisalabad, Pakistan, ended in complete victory.

The Commissioner of Faisalabad Mr. Tahir Hussain announced at a workers' rally that all demands of the workers will be met. He said that a 17 percent rates increase for all will be implemented in its full spirit. The case of the four arrested strike leaders will be withdrawn after an initial inquiry.

This announcement came after over 25,000 workers marched to the city cenre and picketed the office of the Commissioner. The workers marched over 20 kilometers by foot. It was a totally peaceful manifestation. Organisers had made it clear to all the workers that any one involved in any violent incident would be kicked out.

The bosses were too depressed to attempt any provocation.

Workers marched despite heavy rain. At one point, the police tried to block the workers marching towards the Commissioner's office. Workers broke the blockade and went on marching towards the office.

In Lahore, the National Trade Union Federation had organised a protest camp in front of the Punjab Assembly building. Scores of trade union activists turned up to show solidarity with the striking workers.

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