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Transport workers in Nepal win compensation for family of murdered bus driver
21 August 2008
A strike by transport workers in Nepal was called off last Saturday after the government agreed to provide the family of a murdered bus driver with compensation.
Transport workers, represented by two ITF-affiliated Nepal Transport Workers’ Union (NETWON) and the Independent Transport Workers’ Association of Nepal, and one other union, the All Nepal Transport Workers’ Association, walked out on strike across the eastern region of Nepal on 8 August. They were calling for compensation for the family of bus driver Krishna Khawas, who was murdered by a gang of criminals on 7 August while driving a passenger bus at night.
On 16 August, after eight days of strike action, the government and unions agreed on a six-point plan, which includes providing the family of Khawas with 1 million Nepalese rupees (US$14,400) and arranging free education for his children. As part of the agreement, the government has also agreed to bring the perpetrators of the crime to justice and to step up security for transport workers, particularly along highways.
A nationwide strike that was scheduled to begin on 17 August was suspended.
Commenting on the agreement, Ajay Kumar Rai, NETWON President, said: “This agreement has been achieved as a result of all three unions speaking with one voice.”
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