Sir — This is with reference to the editorial, “An unjustified protest” (January 8). The instant strike by workers of Coal India limited was both illegal and unjustified. It is clear that the strike was over the recent ordinance on coal. It was unjustified because the interests of the workers were not being adversely affected. Coal is an essential need of the power sector — which provides an essential service to the community. Although the strike was reportedly called off, it has given enough indications of the irresponsibility of the coal unions.