JCT workers’ plight highlighted at rally in Phagwara

On the occasion of International Labour Day, various workers’ unions came together to organise a commemorative event at the Municipal Corporation Hall, under the leadership of Jasvir Singh, a retired Patwari. Senior INTUC leader Shardanand Singh, along with his associates, participated in the meeting.

The event paid tribute to the martyrs of the historic 1886 Chicago labour movement, where workers sacrificed their lives while demanding an eight-hour workday. Shardanand Singh noted that the first International Labour Day was officially observed in 1889 in honour of these workers, and the day has since symbolised the global labour community’s commitment to rights, struggle and solidarity.

Addressing the gathering, Singh highlighted the ongoing struggle of the JCT Mill workers in Phagwara, whose provident fund dues have long been pending. He praised Congress MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal for raising the issue in the Punjab Legislative Assembly, stating that it was only due to his intervention that workers now have renewed hope of receiving their rightful PF refunds. Singh expressed his gratitude to the legislator for his efforts.

Speakers at the event also discussed issues concerning labour rights and challenges faced by workers across sectors. Following the meeting, a rally was organised, drawing hundreds of participants from different trade unions.

Prominent attendees included Sujeet Kumar, Kamaljit Saini, Ramji, Deepak Handa, Rajeev Chaubey and Vinod Pandey, among others. — OC

Jalandhar