The Lasalgaon Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) market has halted auctions starting Monday morning due to a dispute over unpaid wages. Mathadi workers and other laborers, who have consistently reported for duty, have yet to receive their due payments.
Previously, the group of laborers and Mathadi workers had sent a letter to the APMC office regarding their payment issues. The dispute between traders and laborers over levy payments is a long-standing problem. When attempts to resolve it failed, the issue was taken to court.
Ramesh Palve, an official from the APMC Labour Association, informed the APMC that laborers would not attend work until their payment issues were resolved.
This is not the first time such a situation has occurred. APMCs in the Nashik district experienced a similar ban on auctions 2-3 months ago over the same levy payment dispute between traders and laborers. During that period, onion auctions continued in private markets. The district APMC officials eventually intervened to resolve the issue, allowing auctions to resume smoothly until Saturday, 27 July.
Recurring disputes between traders and laborers have consistently caused setbacks for farmers. These bans directly affect farmers' profits and the rates they receive for their goods at the APMC. The ongoing labour payment issue needs to be resolved promptly to prevent further disruptions and ensure the smooth functioning of the market, ultimately benefiting the farmers who rely on it.