Violence erupts at Hazira as thousands of L&T contract workers protest over wages, work hours

Tension gripped the Hazira industrial belt after nearly 5,000 contract workers of Larsen & Toubro allegedly went on a rampage at the under-construction plant of ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS) in Hazira, Gujarat. The protest, which began early in the morning over pending demands related to wages and working hours, escalated rapidly into vandalism and clashes with police.

According to sources, the agitating workers had been raising concerns for a long time. Their primary demands include reducing daily duty hours from 12 hours to 8 hours. They are also seeking double overtime pay, alleging that overtime is currently compensated at a single rate. Workers further claim that despite performing high-risk erection work at significant heights, they are paid only ₹600 to ₹700 per day. They argue that the wages are not commensurate with the hazardous nature of their work.

The demonstration reportedly turned violent within minutes. An agitated mob vandalised company property, including three fire engines, and set several two-wheelers ablaze. Entry and exit gate systems, including sophisticated access-control machines, as well as office premises, were also damaged.

Upon receiving information about the unrest, a large contingent of Surat Police rushed to the site. As the situation spiralled out of control, police resorted to a mild lathi-charge and fired more than 40 tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. More than 25 workers have been detained for allegedly disturbing law and order. Tight security has been deployed across the plant premises to prevent further escalation. After bringing the situation under control, authorities initiated efforts to facilitate dialogue between company officials and worker representatives in a bid to resolve the dispute.