Kerala government is weighing regularisation of 248 temporary workers at Rehabilitation Plantations Limited (RPL) in Kulathupuzha, dependents of Sri Lankan repatriates. Labour Minister Bindhu Krishna announced this during Assembly session,saying feedback from departments is being sought to move process forward .
Krishna addressed concerns from Punalur MLA C. Ajayaprasad,noting RPL has struggled financially for years. Management is aware of potential for permanent placements,but decisions hinge on financial recovery. Minister assured that push for regularisation will continue once situation improves .
RPL,set up to employ and rehabilitate Indian-origin individuals back from Sri Lanka, has specific mandate . Permanent positions are for these families . But now,with all eligible repatriates employed,company hires India-born dependents to fill workforce gaps.
Krishna also mentioned that under former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy,jobs went to a third family member. She acknowledged challenges faced by estate workers,especially women, and pointed out poor conditions of their living quarters,known as layams . Criticised previous government for inaction,assuring Assembly current administration knows ground realities.
Minister committed to exploring legal avenues to ensure workers at RPL get what they deserve…
