Phagwara, October 31: A protest broke out at JCT Mill’s labour colony late Wednesday night when angry workers surrounded Corporate Interim Resolution Professional (CIRP) Umesh Garg, demanding immediate payment of pending bonus and provident fund dues. The situation turned tense after Garg allegedly asked residents to vacate their quarters or face demolition.
Eyewitnesses said Garg had arrived at the quarters in an Innova (PB-07-BY-6976) to assess conditions when his remarks sparked outrage. Dozens of labourers, soon joined by others, assembled under the leadership of Ram Kumar and began shouting slogans against the management. Around 140–150 workers surrounded Garg and blocked his vehicle, accusing the mill administration of neglect and exploitation.
Protesters claimed they have been waiting for months for their legitimate dues and are living in dismal conditions, citing poor sanitation, irregular electricity and water supply. “We have been pleading for our PF and bonus, but no one listens,” said one worker.
As the agitation intensified, Garg reportedly slipped away from the scene on foot, leaving his car behind. A police team led by Inspector Aman Kumar Daveshwar rushed to the spot and urged the crowd to allow the vehicle’s removal. The protesters, however, stood firm, demanding a written apology from Garg.
By Thursday morning, the car remained stationed at the colony under police watch, with several labourers guarding it. Senior officers said the administration has been alerted to prevent further escalation and discussions are underway to address the workers’ grievances.
