MAHINDAR SINGH RATHORE

The infamous trade unions of West Bengal, notorious for their disruptive tactics, have struck again, this time dealing a severe blow to the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC). The ongoing strike by the stable staff union has paralyzed the Kolkata racing scene, with the second consecutive race day called off. The much-anticipated Calcutta Derby, the crown jewel of the season, scheduled for January 12, 2025, has been indefinitely postponed.   This marks the second major disruption caused by the syces' union within four years, bringing the sport to its knees. Veteran champion trainer Vijay Singh, a pillar of Kolkata racing for over two decades, had foreseen the growing challenges and moved his stable to Chennai a few years ago. His foresight now appears prescient, as trainers, owners, and professionals who continued to seek opportunities in Kolkata find themselves ensnared in this escalating crisis.   To add to the chaos, the union has reportedly threatened to block the move...

  Horse racing in Kolkata has come to a standstill following an agitation led by the stable staff workers' union, triggered by the tragic death of an unemployed former stable staff member. What should have been a time of anticipation and celebration leading up to the prestigious Derby race day has instead turned into a grim standoff, threatening the very fabric of Kolkata’s horse racing community. The history of Kolkata’s labour unions is marked by a legacy of disruption. Their unyielding demands have, over the decades, led to the closure of hundreds of industries, and now the racing industry finds itself ensnared in a similar predicament. This latest unrest has halted operations at the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) for the past three days, plunging the sport into chaos. The union’s uncompromising stance—seemingly oblivious to the economic struggles of the industry—is emblematic of a broader issue that has plagued employers for years. Their incessant push for more benefits an...