Mangaluru: Former employees of Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers (MCF) Ltd have decided to launch a movement opposing the removal of the company’s iconic name following its merger with Paradeep Phosphates Ltd (PPL). The decision was announced on Friday by Maxim Alfred D’Souza, a member of the MCF Hesaru Ulisi Abhiyana Samiti, during a press interaction.

‘MCF is inseparable from Karnataka’s identity’

Addressing reporters, D’Souza said the Samiti strongly objects to replacing the name “Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers” with “Paradeep Phosphates Ltd”, stating that the move has deeply hurt the sentiments of stakeholders, including former and current employees, the local community and Kannadigas across the state.

He highlighted that MCF, founded in 1971 and which began production in 1976, has shared an inseparable bond with the people of Karnataka for over five decades. According to him, the fertiliser manufacturing unit was not merely an industrial establishment but a symbol of pride and heritage for the state.

“The MCF was not just an industry. It symbolised the pride of Karnataka. The people of this region made sacrifices by handing over land, allowing the use of water from rivers and sharing natural resources, all of which played a significant role in the growth of the company,” he said.

Employment and regional contribution

D’Souza pointed out that MCF provided employment opportunities to thousands of people from across Karnataka, particularly from the coastal districts, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of the region. The company’s presence supported several ancillary industries and helped strengthen the industrial ecosystem of the state.

He added that despite MCF functioning under the private sector for nearly 35 years during its 50-year existence, no attempt had been made to change its original name. “This itself shows the respect earlier managements had for the legacy of the company and its emotional connect with the people,” he said.

Objection to replacing ‘Mangalore’ with ‘Paradeep’

Members of the Samiti stressed that the removal of the word “Mangalore” from the company’s name was particularly painful, as it erased the geographical and historical identity associated with the organisation. They argued that the name MCF carried emotional value that could not be replaced by a new corporate identity.

“We condemn the decision to change the name of MCF. It has brought disappointment to everyone who shares a bond with the company,” D’Souza said.

Former employees unite in protest

The Samiti claimed that over 450 former employees have united to oppose the name change. Many of them, D’Souza said, had spent decades working at MCF and continue to feel a strong emotional attachment to the institution.

A memorandum opposing the name change has already been submitted to Paradeep Phosphates Ltd officials. In addition, the Samiti has launched a signature campaign to mobilise public support and raise awareness about the issue.

Plans to approach government and representatives

As part of the movement, the Samiti plans to submit memorandums to elected representatives and the government, seeking intervention to ensure that the historic MCF name is retained. Members believe that collective public pressure could persuade the management to reconsider the decision.

Others present

Former employees and supporters, including Shivarama Shetty, Dayananda Shetty, Jayarama Shetty, Mohammed Ali and others, were present during the press meet and expressed solidarity with the movement.

Conclusion

The protest by former MCF employees reflects wider concerns about preserving regional identity and industrial heritage amid corporate mergers. As the signature campaign progresses and representations are made to authorities, the response of the company and policymakers will determine the future of the iconic MCF name.