Nuddea Plantations Limited, operating the Totapara Tea Estate in Banarhat, Jalpaiguri, has been embroiled in a significant labor dispute concerning the payment of bonuses to its workers.
⚖️ Legal Proceedings and Court Orders
On September 25, 2025, the Calcutta High Court's Circuit Bench in Jalpaiguri disposed of a writ petition (W.P.A. No. 2115 of 2025) filed by Nuddea Plantations Limited. The court directed the company to pay an interim bonus of 9% to the workers by September 27, 2025, as voluntarily offered by the management. The remaining bonus amount, as claimed by the workers, was to be subject to conciliation under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
Subsequently, on October 10, 2025, a representation was made on behalf of the management during conciliation proceedings, emphasizing the company's financial constraints and the challenges in paying the full bonus amount. The management expressed its willingness to engage in further discussions to resolve the matter amicably
📉 Impact on Workers
The labor dispute has had a profound impact on the workers of the Totapara Tea Estate. In May 2024, the management abruptly suspended operations at the estate, leaving approximately 850 workers unemployed. The workers have since claimed that this action was illegal and have been actively seeking redress through various legal and industrial channels
🏛️ Ongoing Conciliation Efforts
The conciliation proceedings, as mandated by the court, are ongoing. The outcome of these proceedings will determine the final bonus amount payable to the workers and may also address other related grievances. Both parties are encouraged to engage constructively to reach a fair and amicable resolution to the dispute.
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