Surat | Gujarat — Around 5,000 contract workers of Larsen & Toubro went on a violent rampage at the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AMNS) plant in Hazira on Thursday, bringing operations at the under-construction facility to a grinding halt. What began as a protest over salary hikes and working hours quickly spiraled into chaos, with vehicles torched, offices vandalized, and police forced to lathicharge and fire over 40 tear gas shells to regain control.
The unrest reportedly intensified after a viral WhatsApp video showed clashes involving refinery workers in Panipat, triggering anger among workers at the Hazira plant. Within minutes, thousands gathered, shouting slogans and demanding an 8-hour shift system and double overtime pay.
Vehicles Torched, Property Damaged
Eyewitnesses said the situation turned violent when agitated workers began vandalizing company property. Three company fire engines were severely damaged, four bikes were set ablaze, and entry-exit gates equipped with advanced security systems were smashed. Inside the premises, employees allegedly set fire to machines, fans, tables, and vehicles.
Plant operations were completely stopped as workers blocked movement and raised slogans. “The atmosphere became extremely tense. Thousands were running inside the plant after police action,” said a source.
Police Action, Officers Injured
A massive police convoy rushed to the site. Deputy Commissioner of Police Shefali Baranwal confirmed that more than 35 tear gas shells were fired and over 20 workers detained. “Initially, we tried to convince them that their grievances would be heard. But when stone pelting began, we had to take immediate action. Strict FIRs will be registered,” she said.
During the clash, DCP Baranwal suffered a stone injury on her hand. PI V.L. Parmar was seriously injured when a tear gas shell exploded in his hand, while Constable Vijay also sustained injuries. All injured officers were shifted to hospital.
Workers Speak: “We Work 12 Hours for ₹600–700”
Workers alleged exploitation and long-pending wage issues. Ravi, a worker, claimed, “We demand 8-hour duty and double overtime. Right now, we get single rate overtime. Some of us earn ₹600 to ₹700 for 12 hours of high-risk erection work at heights.”
Another worker, Sikandar, said, “We only want fair pay and proper shifts. They make us work 12 hours under pressure. The vandalism began when security personnel tried to beat workers.”
Fire Department on Standby
Sub Fire Officer Dhaval Mohit from Palanpur Fire Station said, “When we arrived, some vehicles were already burning. The company’s internal fire engines controlled the fire. We are on standby.”
Company Statement
In an official statement, L&T said, “Whenever the Gujarat government notifies the labour code, we will implement all its provisions immediately.”
AM/NS India stated, “A group of workers deployed by L&T at AM/NS India Hazira plant project site gathered today to raise some demands on their employer, L&T.L&T management is expeditiously handling the situation in discussion with the workers. Local authorities are also inpolved in managing the situation on ground”
Viral Video Trigger
According to police, the viral video of refinery unrest in Panipat worsened tensions. “The matter became complicated after the video spread on WhatsApp, leading to mass gathering and escalation,” DCP Baranwal added.
With tight security now deployed at the Hazira plant, investigations are underway. Authorities have indicated that more detentions and legal action may follow as they assess the full extent of damage.
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