Left employees strike paralyse work

KOLKATA: Work in government offices in West Bengal was stalled on Tuesday in response to a nation-wide strike called by pro-Left unions, as state Finance Minister Asim Dasgupta came out in support of the striking government employees.

The state secretariat Writers' Buildings wore a deserted look as most departments and secretaries' chambers remained closed in the morning. All entrances to the building, except the central gate, were also locked.

Later, however, the rooms were opened by the police, but the secretariat recorded less than two per cent attendance, Home secretary Prasad Ranjan Roy said.

Supporters of the strike were seen holding street meetings at various areas of the metropolis, including the main commercial district of BBD Bag.

Dasgupta, who came to his office, told newsmen he had moral support for the striking employees as they had the right to protest against the anti-employee measures of the Centre.

Asked why he had come to office if he supported the strike, Dasgupta said that he had come for 'personal reasons.'

The home secretary, however, evaded a question whether the salaries of striking employees would be deducted. "You have to ask the finance minister," he said.

Jointly called by Confederation of Central Government Employees and workers, All India State Government Employees Federation, State Government Teachers Organisation and All India Federation of College Teachers Associations, the strike was aimed at pressing for their 12-point demands.