There have been umpteen interpretations for the events that unfolded along with the recent stir by estate workers at Munnar. While many gave detailed ideological reasons or circumstances that led to the stir, almost none have dwelt with the ground realities that led to the agitation.
History teaches us that trade unions came into existence because of class differences, persecution, slavery, human rights violation and exploitation of many by a privileged few, who had been doing so for centuries. While the so-called privileged class dictated terms on even what to eat and wear, the underprivileged were not allowed even to think or act independently. Trying to preserve one's dignity was not even an option. While the landed few perpetuated these atrocities with the help of those in power, these very landlords slowly assumed power, which facilitated their absolute dominance over the poor. Since absolute power corrupts absolutely, repression of the poor reached extreme levels aided by local goons who were employed in order to ensure that the will of the landlords were implemented.
The tea estates were started by the East India Company. Obviously, the estates nurtured the rich while the poor were persecuted. The estate managers, who saw that the interests of the landlords were achieved, befriended local leaders who became self-styled union leaders. Kept in good humour by estate owners, these union leaders soon became owners of bungalows, cars and luxuries. Since the leaders could influence a sizeable vote bank, politicians also were involved and adequately tipped to ensure that everything fell into place for the landlords.
While the poor workers demanded better health, education and basic standards of living, the unholy nexus between the landlords and their sycophantic political accomplices ensured that the demands never saw fruition. The situation deteriorated so much that in spite of repeated assurances from political bigwigs, nothing much changed for the workers. This prompted women labourers to come out against the treacherous leaders and the deaf management with their own style of agitation. The mass movement, which excelled event managers with respect to the way it was coordinated, also brought out the hollow promises of politicians and their lack of credibility.
These women labourers might not probably know about socialism or be informed about union formation. They might not understand the nuances of politics or the ideologies inscribed in 'Das Kapital.' However they were successful in separating fact from fiction. Wised up by their ability to discern what is ultimately good for them, let us drop our pretentious flags and streamers in disgrace.
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