Facing Pressure from a Political Party to Form a Union: How Should We Respond?

Dear Colleagues,

We are in the business of Foods & Beverages all over the country, with a regional office in Mumbai, having an employee strength of around 90 for the West region. Recently, in the last month, we have been approached by a local political party with demands that we allow them to form a Union in our Company by either taking their union members on our payroll or allowing our permanent staff to become a part of their union. I have met them twice as of now, including talking to them on the phone 4-5 times.

So far as I understand, they are trying to secure jobs for their people, preferably for Election Votes and, of course, various nuances that come in when politics merges with the Office. The party has also politely told us that if we do not comply, we may have to face the music - first from the various labor departments, and second from the party workmen themselves.

Could I please request your advice? I shall be thankful.

Regards,
SMM - HR

Joining any trade union is a fundamental right of every worker. If they want to form a union, let them form. Why should the HR Manager/ Executive be part of it? If any political party has approached, that is for their sake only. Being an HR person, please avoid such things. Once a trade union is formed, things will go out of your control. It is very easy for an unscrupulous trade union to close down a well-running establishment, but I have not seen an instance of a trade union providing employment to anyone. Therefore, if you maintain a good relationship with employees, convince them, though not directly because as an HR professional, you are not supposed to oppose any move of employees forming a trade union.

Regards, Madhu.T.K