The labor union launched the agitation after 10 employees were sacked from their jobs on charges of misbehaving with senior staff, leading to the closure of the casino for 19 days last month.[break]
Bhabishor Aryal, Deputy General Manager said, “Although we have not completely fulfilled the demand of the agitating union, we have reached a consensus.” Aryal added that the union has agreed not to continue protests after the management agreed to compensate employees who were sacked.
The management accuses the Maoist-aligned union for the attack during which a number of officials including Aryal were physically attacked and locked for a day. However, the agitating union said the agreement was temporary and they would resume their protests if the management fails to fulfil their demands.
Ajita Shimkhada, president of the labour union affiliated to UCPN (Maoist) said, “The talks so far have been positive but we will continue the protest if it doesn´t yield fruitful results.” She stressed that the actual demand was for the reinstatement of 10 workers. So far, the management has only agreed to compensate the sacked workers.
The problem arose after workers started demanding their salaries and overtime allowances be paid within 7th day of each month. The union has also charged the management of using Rs 2 million from the employment welfare fund without providing interest.
Although the casino resumed operation after February 20, there had been some tension due continuing protests at the casino.
Valley-Link Private Limited which runs Casino Venus came into operation in 2008 December. The company also operates casinos in Radisson Hotel and Pokhara Grande. Casino Venus has 560 employees.
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