Gadchiroli Workers Launch Relay Hunger Strike Against Plant Sale and Relocation
Workers at the APR Sack Plant located in Ashti, Gadchiroli district, have initiated a relay hunger strike in a powerful protest against the reported sale and proposed relocation of their industrial unit. This drastic action comes as employees express grave concerns that the move directly threatens the livelihoods of nearly 400 families dependent on the plant.
Union Alleges Secret Sale to Triveni Lloyds Metal
BC Banerjee, the general secretary of the recognized BILT–Ashti Paper Mill Mazdoor Sabha, stated that the agitation commenced on Tuesday. The protest is being conducted under the guidance of former MP and union president Naresh Pugalia. Workers were galvanized into action after learning that the plant, along with 292.50 acres of mill land and its associated infrastructure, had allegedly been sold to Triveni Lloyds Metal Pvt. Ltd.
"The recognized union and workers were kept completely in the dark. Such a major decision affecting hundreds of families cannot be taken without consultation," Banerjee emphasized, highlighting the lack of transparency in the process.
Operations and Workforce at Risk
According to union officials, the APR Sack Plant is operated by Avanta Holdings Ltd., which functions as a subsidiary of the Ballarpur Paper Mill. The facility specializes in manufacturing bags for paper, cement, and foodgrains. The proposed relocation of the plant and the sale of the land would have a direct and severe impact on the workforce.
- 44 permanent workers face uncertainty regarding their employment and future.
- 343 contract workers are equally threatened by the potential shutdown or move.
This totals to 387 workers, whose families' economic stability is now hanging in the balance.
Protest Dynamics and Political Appeal
On the inaugural day of the protest, the hunger strike began at 11 AM with one permanent worker and two contract workers voluntarily fasting. Hundreds of other employees gathered in solidarity, vociferously raising slogans condemning the management's unilateral decision.
Banerjee revealed that the union has formally appealed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging his immediate intervention. The primary demand is for the state government to cancel the transaction and ensure the plant continues its operations at the current location in Ashti.
"The relay hunger strike will continue until our demands are addressed. If ignored, we will intensify the agitation," Banerjee warned, signaling a potential escalation if their concerns remain unheeded.
The protest underscores a critical labor dispute where workers are fighting not just for jobs, but for the survival of their community, emphasizing the need for inclusive decision-making in industrial matters that affect hundreds of lives.
