JCT Mill workers gherao corporate officer in Phagwara over pending dues

Tension erupted at the labour quarters of JCT Mill Phagwara on Wednesday night after workers gherao  Umesh Garg, Corporate Interim Resolution Professional (CIRP) of JCT Mill, demanding resolution of long-pending issues, including unpaid bonus and provident fund dues.

According to reports, the incident occurred when Garg arrived at the labourers’ residential quarters in an Innova car (PB-07-BY-6976). During his visit, he allegedly asked the workers to vacate the quarters, warning that the houses would otherwise be demolished. The statement angered the labourers, prompting a spontaneous protest. Within minutes, around 140–150 workers, led by senior labourer Ram Kumar, gathered at the site, surrounding Garg and his vehicle and demanding immediate redressal of their grievances.

The protesters alleged that despite repeated appeals, their legitimate dues, including pending bonus and provident fund payments, have not been cleared. They also raised concerns over irregular water supply, erratic electricity and poor living conditions in the quarters. The workers refused to disperse until their demands were addressed.

As the situation escalated, Garg reportedly slipped away on foot, leaving his vehicle behind. The protest continued late into the night, prompting police intervention. Inspector Aman Kumar Daveshwar and a police team reached the site, urging the workers to allow the removal of the vehicle. However, the protesters remained firm, demanding a public apology from Garg for what they described as “insensitive remarks.”

As of Thursday morning, the Innova car remained parked at the site, with 8–10 labourers still on vigil. Local police are deployed and the situation is being closely monitored. Authorities fear the agitation may intensify if demands remain unaddressed and have suggested maintaining a strict vigil while engaging in dialogue to prevent escalation.