It is with deep sadness that the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) announces the passing of Mohan Aswani on 12 September 2024.
Brother Aswani was a revered leader within the Indian trade union movement, respected by all who had the privilege of working with him. His untimely passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and comrades across the global trade union community.
“For over 50 years, Brother Aswani dedicated his life to championing the rights of port and dockworkers as a key figure in the Kandla Port Karmachari Sangh (KPKS). His tireless efforts placed him at the forefront of the struggle for workers’ rights at Kandla Port,” said ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton.
He played an instrumental role in the Bipartite Wage Negotiation Committee (BWNC), representing the 12 major Indian ports and advocating for port workers in negotiations with the Indian government and the Ministry of Shipping.
Paddy Crumlin, ITF President and Chair of the ITF Dockers’ Section, paid tribute to Brother Aswani today: “Comrade Aswani was not only a key figure in India but also contributed greatly to the work of the ITF. He actively participated in ITF activities, meetings, and policy discussions, and led efforts to support informal workers in the Kutch district of Gujarat.
“On behalf of the ITF and the global trade union movement, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all those affected by this loss. His legacy will continue to hold the future generations of trade unionists in good stead.”
