Nepal Airlines cabin crew protest against discrimination & injustice
Long-serving cabin crew members have expressed their grievances over the management's failure to implement a recent interim order issued by the Supreme Court.
KATHMANDU: Air hostesses from Nepal Airlines have staged a protest claiming injustice and discrimination within the company.
Long-serving cabin crew members have expressed their grievances over the management’s failure to implement a recent interim order issued by the Supreme Court.
Despite appealing for justice, the management has allegedly ignored their concerns, prompting the crew to initiate a sit-in at the airline’s central office.
The protest began this morning, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, at the main entrance of the office.
Approximately 50 air hostesses demonstrated while wearing black armbands, as office heads and staff attempted to enter. Senior flight attendant Prajita Karki stated that the protest would continue until their demands are heard.
The management has responded by stating that they cannot extend the contracts of the air hostesses, as their five-year agreements have expired. An official from the corporation explained, “The air hostesses were employed under a five-year contract, and since their contract has ended, we cannot continue their service.”
A few months ago, the Supreme Court issued an interim order directing the corporation not to discriminate among employees regarding service, benefits, and tenure.
Following this directive, dissatisfaction has arisen among the staff due to the alleged disregard for the court’s order and the plan to dismiss cabin crew members.
Earlier, 172 cabin crew members had approached the Supreme Court seeking justice.
The court prioritized the case and issued an interim order to prevent discrimination against employees, urging the management to act without bias.
The employees also submitted a recommendation to Tourism Minister Badri Pandey, urging him to take necessary steps to halt the discrimination.
They have accused the management of taking actions based on bias, even while the matter is pending before the Supreme Court.
During the protest, employees carried placards demanding adherence to the Supreme Court’s interim order, cessation of discrimination, and an end to oppression within the corporation.
