Memorandum signed in blood sent to PM by HPF workers

Stepping up their agitation for revival of public sector Hindustan Photo Films, nearly 800 employees of the unit sent a memorandum signed in blood to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, seeking his intervention for the early re-opening of the factory. The workers and their families are on a relay hunger strike for the last 65 days in front of the factory, seeking a financial package for its revival, which was okayed after intervention of Nilgiris MP and former telecom minister A Raja, Haldoari, Secretary, 'Save HPF Committee', said. However, Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram reportedly rejected the proposal of the PSU, following which the workers went on a strike, he said. As there was no proper response from the Government, the employees hit upon the idea of sending a memorandum signed in blood to Singh, seeking his intervention, Haldoari said. Copies of the memorandum were also sent to UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Chidambaram, Union Heavy Industries Minister Praful Patel and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. All political parties and various NGOs have extended support to the strike. The workers have also decided to lay siege to the Raj Bhavan where the Governor and VVIPs stay during their visits here, on March 12. This could disrupt tourist flow to the famous Botanical Gardens, since it (Bhavan) is located inside, Haldorai said.