Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development, Jeevan Thondaman, assured the public of the government's readiness to confront legal action from companies opposing the recent wage increase for estate workers.

Addressing a press briefing at the President Media Centre, Minister Thondaman highlighted the government's resolve in implementing the mandated daily wage of Rs. 1700 for estate workers, despite initial resistance from plantation companies. He emphasized the companies' capacity to augment wages, evidenced by their prompt increase of Rs. 200 in basic salary following the government's gazette notification.

Minister Thondaman underscored ongoing efforts to improve the standard of living for estate communities, including addressing housing shortages, expanding educational and employment opportunities, and now, increasing salaries.

He cautioned against election-season promises that lack clarity on implementation mechanisms, particularly regarding proposals to transform estate workers into small estate owners.