Fri Jan 23 15:45:49 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Supplyco Outlets in Kerala Face Two-Day Strike Over Unmet Union Demands

The Story:

The Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation (Supplyco), a vital public distribution system in Kerala, is bracing for a two-day strike commencing January 28, 2026. The strike was called by the KOCHIA trade union, affiliated with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), after conciliatory discussions with Supplyco management failed to resolve the union’s long-standing grievances. The union is demanding the payment of salary arrears dating back to 2019, assurance of minimum wages and job security for temporary packing employees, rectification of irregularities in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, and implementation of the government’s mandated 10% deputation policy.

Despite a meeting between Supplyco Managing Director Jayakrishnan and CITU union leaders N.A. Mani, K.R. Baiju, Savitha, and Vaishakh, a resolution could not be reached. Supplyco management stated that the union’s demands are currently under consideration by the State government, limiting their ability to take immediate action. This impasse threatens to disrupt the supply of essential goods through Supplyco outlets across the state.

Key Points:

  • The KOCHIA trade union (CITU-affiliated) has called for a two-day strike of Supplyco outlets, beginning January 28, 2026.
  • The primary reason for the strike is the failure of discussions regarding the union’s demands with Supplyco management.
  • Key demands include: salary arrears pending since 2019, minimum wage and job security for temporary employees, rectification of CSR irregularities, and implementation of the 10% deputation policy.
  • Supplyco management claims the demands are under the State government’s consideration, hindering their ability to address them directly.

Key Takeaways:

  • The strike highlights the ongoing labor disputes and financial challenges within Kerala’s public sector.
  • The delayed payment of salary arrears since 2019 suggests systemic financial strain on Supplyco or the state government.
  • The union’s focus on job security for temporary employees reflects broader concerns about precarious employment within the sector.
  • The strike action will likely disrupt the supply of essential goods to the public, potentially creating hardship for vulnerable populations dependent on Supplyco outlets.

Impact Analysis:

The impending strike is likely to have significant short-term and potentially long-term implications for Kerala’s public distribution system.

  • Short-Term Impact: Disruption of Supplyco services will likely lead to shortages of essential commodities, affecting low-income families and other vulnerable groups who rely on these outlets for affordable food and other necessities. There is also potential for price increases in the open market due to increased demand.
  • Long-Term Impact: If the strike persists or similar industrial actions become frequent, public trust in Supplyco’s ability to fulfill its mandate may erode. This could lead to increased reliance on private retailers and potentially higher prices. Furthermore, the state government’s handling of this dispute will likely be scrutinized, potentially affecting its political standing and future industrial relations. The underlying issues of financial sustainability and labor rights within Supplyco need to be addressed to prevent recurring disruptions and ensure the long-term viability of the public distribution system.

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