Ashish Jaiswal Orders Inquiry into 16 Bombay Hospital Staff Complaints by Sept 8
Maharashtra Minister of State for Labour Ashish Jaiswal has directed the Labour Department to conduct an objective inquiry into 16 complaints raised by women and other employees of Bombay Hospital, ordering officials to submit a detailed report by September 8. Jaiswal also ordered a separate inquiry into a sexual harassment complaint raised by women employees.
The directives were issued during a review meeting chaired by Jaiswal at Mantralaya to discuss pending demands of Bombay Hospital employees. The issues discussed covered wages, gratuity, provident fund, salary differences, deductions, and other labour-related matters.
The meeting was attended by Labour Commissioner H.P. Tummod, Deputy Commissioner Sunita Mhaiskar, Rashtriya Karmachari Sena president Kiran Pawaskar, employee leader Dr Hariharan, Bombay Hospital Deputy Manager (Human Resources) Rakhi Bahuguna, and representatives of the hospital's employees and union.
Employee representatives stated that 16 complaints regarding gratuity, provident fund, salary differences, deductions, and other service-related benefits had been submitted to the Labour Department, but expected action had not yet been taken.
Taking serious note of the issue, Jaiswal directed officials to verify each complaint separately and prepare a report establishing the facts. He emphasized that the inquiry should not be limited to reviewing documents and instructed officials to hear the employees, hospital management, and union representatives before reaching conclusions. He stated that there should be no delay in matters concerning workers' rights.
Regarding the sexual harassment complaint, Jaiswal ordered officials to carry out a prompt and serious inquiry and initiate action in accordance with the law against anyone found guilty. He said providing women employees with a safe and dignified workplace was the institution's responsibility.
Jaiswal further directed the department to take steps to ensure eligible employees receive wage differences for previous periods under applicable rules. He also ordered an inspection to verify whether Bombay Hospital employees are being paid in accordance with the Minimum Wages Act, adding that legal action should follow if workers receive less than prescribed rates.
Jaiswal said the Labour Department must play an active role in resolving grievances within the stipulated time rather than treating them merely as administrative matters.
