Mumbai:
Air India (AI) pilots have now decided to raise their voice against alleged corruption in their ranks. Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA), the pilot body of AI, has decided to fight against corruption that has weakened the roots of the Maharaja.
ICPA's first circular (a copy is with SMD) dated April 7, issued by Captain Rishabh Kapur, General Secretary, ICPA, clearly reads, "The ICPA finds itself in familiar territory with the hunger strike of Anna Hazare, as we are victims of the same corruption at the highest levels.
We, the ICPA, support his cause and take inspiration from him to fight against the corruption. Save India and Air India from corruption." The April 8 letter of directive issued by ICPA to all pilots asked them to wear a black arm band as a symbol of protest.
The letter read, "In view of deferment of salaries, failed assurances and commitments by the management and to protest against the ever growing corruption in Air India, the CEC has passed a resolution that all the pilots will adorn black arm bands in protest against the management."
ICPA had threatened to go on an indefinite strike last month against pending wages and incentives not getting cleared by the AI management on time, after which the matter was moved to Chief Labour Commissioner.