Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Industry Department to prioritise the resolution of long-pending worker dues, some of which have remained unsettled for years. This directive comes amid reports of a power struggle between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Shinde, with both leaders setting up parallel offices to oversee and expedite key projects.
Shinde instructed the establishment of a special cell to monitor sick industries, update their data, and ensure timely action on workers’ outstanding payments.
During a review meeting of the Industry Department at the Sahyadri Guest House, he also underscored the urgent need for concrete measures to support workers affected by the financial collapse of sick and closed factories. He highlighted that while the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) plays a crucial role in industrial growth, workers remain an integral part of the system.
The newly formed special cell will include representatives from labour departments and industry experts. It will update records of industries already under the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) or those likely to be referred there. The government will then raise these cases with the NCLT to ensure workers’ dues are given priority.
Additionally, Shinde has directed the Industry Department to engage with relevant authorities to propose amendments to the Company Law, strengthening protections for workers’ rights.
In a separate move, Shinde has also set up a medical aid cell at the ministry, despite the existing Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) cell. This initiative–reportedly the first of its kind in Maharashtra–comes amid ongoing friction within the Mahayuti alliance over issues such as the appointment of guardian ministers.
The new medical cell, headed by Shinde’s close aide Mangesh Chivate, will not disburse funds but will coordinate with the state health ministry to facilitate medical assistance.
