Protest and Strikes
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Remove English Protest 1967
Play Major role As Student Leader
Before joining the Railways, I was actively involved in student movements. In 1967, when the nationwide “Remove English” movement began, I was a student at Lucknow University. I took a leadership role in that movement and contributed significantly as a student leader and organizer.
During this protest, I was even jailed. The PAC and the police in Uttar Pradesh beat us severely. This was the beginning of my journey of struggle during my student life.
Railway Strike 1974
A Proud Chapter: Shiv Gopal mishra Role in the Historic Strike
This was a major Strike. At that time, I was working as an apprentice. Though not a permanent employee, we played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in the protest. We delivered food to those participating in the strike, and even managed to shut down several power plants—many of which remained non-operational afterward.
The contribution of apprentices during the movement was immense and was deeply appreciated by senior leaders like T.N. Vajpayee ji and Chaubey ji. When they were released from jail, they personally met us, acknowledged our efforts, and even patted our backs in encouragement.
We worked under great risk. Clear instructions had been issued that any apprentice or substitute found participating in the strike would face strict disciplinary action. Even the unions had directed us not to be involved directly in the strike.
Yet, we chose to stay and contribute in our own unique way. It was not just an act of support—it was a bold stand.
I still remember how we used to deliver essential items to jailed comrades, visited their families to inform them, and helped communicate critical updates to those hiding underground. All of this required tremendous courage and discretion.
That protest remains one of the proudest chapters of my life.
lucknow Railway Strike 1979
A spark that turn into Strick
In November 1979, the Lucknow Railway Strike shook the entire system. The protest began when RPF jawans brutally assaulted railway staff at the North Eastern Railway loco shed. Amid chaos, a young union leader — Shiv Gopal Mishra, only 29 years old — took a bold stand. He called for an immediate shutdown, halting engines and stopping trains across Lucknow. For three tense days, operations froze, passengers suffered, and pressure mounted. Yet, Mishra not only managed relief for stranded families but also pushed authorities into action. His fearless leadership forced the suspension of the RPF commander and secured ex gratia allowance for workers — a massive victory at such a young age.
👉 This was not just a strike; it was a turning point in labor history. Want to know how a 29-year-old changed the fate of Indian Railways?
Two Decades of Fight, OPS Finally Back!
UPS’s Historic Struggle and Success for Old Pension Restoration
As far as the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) is concerned, we fought this battle with full seriousness and intensity. With the participation of nearly 2.5 to 3 lakh employees, we organized a massive demonstration at Ramlila Maidan. Following this, the Somanathan Committee was formed, where we held negotiations with the then Finance Secretary (who is now the Cabinet Secretary).
The movement regarding the New Pension Scheme (NPS) was on the verge of failure, but due to the intervention of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the situation changed. Ultimately, it was decided that all employees appointed after January 1, 2004, would also be given a guaranteed pension.
According to the decision – Employees will receive a minimum of 50% pension along with Dearness Relief (DR). The minimum pension has been fixed at ₹10,000. Pension has been ensured up to 60%. A provision of 60% family pension has also been included.
This historic decision gives us immense satisfaction. It will not only provide financial relief to lakhs of employees but also give them a sense of dignity and security.
