Female employee accuses union leader of inappropriate conduct; internal inquiry confirms allegations

// Complaint filed with NMDC’s senior authorities; immediate suspension ordered

//Incident sparks debate on union accountability and workplace safety

By Akshay Lahre
Raipur/Dantewada । B. Raja Rao, a prominent union leader at NMDC’s Bacheli project, has been suspended following serious allegations of sexual harassment brought against him by a female employee. The suspension was enforced after an internal investigation upheld the claims made in the complaint, sparking concerns about workplace safety and the misuse of union influence.

According to sources, the complainant alleged that Raja Rao repeatedly visited her office under professional pretenses but with ulterior motives. In her complaint to NMDC’s senior officials, the employee recounted an incident where Raja Rao allegedly grabbed her hand and attempted to touch her face inappropriately. When she resisted and objected to his behavior, he reportedly responded with abusive language.

The victim described Raja Rao’s conduct as “insulting, degrading, and emotionally distressing,” emphasizing that his actions created a hostile work environment. Despite facing intimidation and alleged threats to her job, she proceeded to file a formal complaint with NMDC’s senior management.

Upon receiving the complaint, NMDC launched an internal inquiry, which reportedly confirmed the allegations. Consequently, Raja Rao was suspended with immediate effect, pending further action.

Raja Rao, who had once established himself as a vocal advocate for labor rights, now faces severe criticism for betraying the trust of the very workers he claimed to represent. His suspension has also reignited concerns about the potential abuse of power by influential union leaders.

Sources have revealed that this is not the first instance of controversy surrounding Raja Rao. Allegations suggest he had previously manipulated workers for personal gain, incited employees against NMDC’s management, and disrupted company operations under the guise of union activism.

“This incident is not just about one individual; it underscores a deeper concern about the exploitation of power within union leadership,” remarked a company official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The case has prompted widespread calls for greater accountability in labor unions, with employees urging NMDC and other authorities to introduce stricter measures to safeguard workplace integrity. While NMDC has assured a comprehensive investigation, demands for improved oversight and preventive measures to ensure employee safety continue to grow.