Pimpri Chinchwad Police Launches Industrial Grievance Redressal Cell to Tackle Extortion and Harassment

Pune: In a proactive move to address the concerns of companies, the Pimpri Chinchwad Police has established an industrial grievance redressal cell. The cell aims to handle issues related to extortion and harassment from Mathadi labor unions and other sources.

Recently, Commissioner Vinay Kumar Choubey, Labor Commissioner Shelendra Pol, Assistant Labour Commissioner Nikhil Valke from Mathadi Board, and Deputy Engineer Chaudekar from MIDC Division organized a meeting with representatives from 125 companies in Chakan. The meeting focused on understanding the challenges faced by these companies and finding effective solutions. Key topics discussed included labor unions, Mathadi workers’ issues, the Mathadi Labour Act, background verification, traffic planning and implementation, CCTV cameras, waste management, and more. These discussions are crucial for industrial growth, protection of interests, and ensuring a secure investment environment.

During the meeting, Commissioner Choubey encouraged company representatives to report complaints to the police without fear. He highlighted the swift and positive response of the police department, sharing that 12 cases had already been registered against extortionists, resulting in the arrest and imprisonment of all the accused.

Commissioner Choubey assured the company management officers and members that they should proactively report any difficulties, issues within their companies, or complaints related to workers to the nearest police station, Industrial Grievance Cell, or any senior officer. He emphasized that strict legal action would be taken against the perpetrators of extortion.

To expedite the resolution of industrial grievances, the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate has established an Industrial Grievance Cell under the Anti-Extortion Squad. Companies can report grievances by contacting the Industrial Grievance Cell at 9529691966 or dialing 112 for immediate action. They can also send an email to [email protected].

Additionally, a proposal has been submitted to the government to create the positions of one Additional Commissioner of Police and two Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCP) within the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate. This initiative aims to enhance crime-fighting capabilities by increasing manpower in the industrial sector and creating a safer environment.

Another proposal has been put forward to establish a dedicated zone under the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) specifically for the industrial sector.

Commissioner Choubey also announced that a request has been made to the government to build a modern and technologically advanced police station on the land acquired from the MIDC department at HP Chowk for the Mhalunge MIDC police station.

Confidentiality of the complainant’s name will be maintained by the police administration in cases where the company management or the complainant deems it necessary. However, Choubey advised most companies to seek legal assistance and file a complaint if they encounter any issues.

Commissioner Choubey emphasized the importance of conducting online police verification of workers for jobs and other work in the industrial sector, especially where a large number of local and expatriate citizens are employed. He urged companies to ensure transparency in awarding contracts and hiring security guards, including completing police verification.

To address concerns such as worker accidents on roads, Commissioner of Police stressed the need for company management to encourage all workers to wear helmets.

Installing high-quality, high-definition CCTV cameras on company premises, public roads, and relevant areas was highlighted as a crucial measure to prevent theft and other crimes in the industrial area.

To increase road capacity, company management was advised to provide parking facilities for workers’ motorcycles and four-wheelers within the premises instead of allowing them to park on the roads outside the company gate.

A Police Help Center will be established at Vasuli Phata to tackle the rising crime rates.

Officials from the Labor and Mathadi Department will organize workshops for company management to provide detailed information about the Mathadi Act and other labor laws, enabling them to familiarize themselves with the relevant legislation.

Regular coordination meetings will be held to promote industrial growth and enhance the overall sense of security in the MIDC region. Company management is urged not to succumb to fear or pressure from criminal organizations, as strict action will be taken against such entities.