Bicycle co workers cry `Swadeshi’ to save jobs

He said the company used to produce 1,200 bicycles per day before its financial deterioration began. Moreover, NBCI, still in operation, has many consumer orders in hand. The workers’ counsel said the Central government has revived companies like Scooters India Limited, Bharat Pumps and Compressors, Tribeni Structurals and Braithwaite by giving grants from the National Renewal Fund. Therefore, this bicycle company can also be rejuvenated, he argued.

Interestingly, thepetitioners, harping on the Swadeshi aspect, have stated that the bicycle industry, which is an eco-friendly and non-pollutant enterprise, has a bright future in India. Therefore, the Union of India cannot close down a productive unit like the National Bicycle Corporation.The Union of India was not represented in court on Wednesday. Justice Rebello issued a fresh notice to the government, so that their stance is explained at the next hearing on April 20. Moreover, the judge ordered status quo in the company’s affairs.

The National Bicycle Corporation, previously known as Hind Cycles, was nationalised in 1980. As sickness emerged, a reference was made to the Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction under the Sick Industries Companies Act. The workmen complained to the board that modern machinery was being deliberately taken out of the factory. While the BIFR ordered the company to be wound up, the workers’ suggestion of forming a workers’ co-operative was also rejected by the appellate authority.The workers moved the High Court this year after the government issued the winding-up orders.