The Business Bytes
Paradip, November 8, 2024 (TBB Bureau): Tensions have escalated in Paradip as local employees of AMNS (Arcelor Mittal Nippon Steel) India have staged a protest against the company, accusing it of exploitation and unfair treatment. The protest, led by youth who were employed by the company after giving up their ancestral land, highlights deepening grievances over low wages and broken promises of better employment conditions.
The employees, many of whom were originally offered jobs by Esaar Steel in 2008 after they relinquished their land for the company’s operations, claim that they are still being paid only a nominal salary of Rs 12,000 per month. With the cost of living rising, workers argue that this meagre pay is insufficient to support their families and sustain livelihoods.
“We gave up our land for the company, and we have sacrificed our ancestral properties. The company has exploited us, and despite repeated complaints, nothing has changed,” said one of the protesting employees. “The company continues to pay us the same paltry amount, and despite assurances, no effort has been made to improve our situation.”
In 2006, Esaar Steel, which was later acquired by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AMNS), took over land from local people to build its facilities. In 2008, AMNS promised employment to the landless, but instead of offering permanent jobs, workers were employed under contractors, with no job security or benefits.
“After losing our land, we were promised stable jobs, but instead, we were employed through agencies with no benefits or job permanence. The old company cheated us, and the new management hasn’t done anything to correct the situation,” one of the employees added.
The workers are also voicing frustration over the company’s refusal to address their concerns. Despite numerous attempts to bring the issue to the attention of company authorities, the employees claim their grievances have been ignored.
“After giving up our land and facing so many hardships, we cannot feed our families with a salary of Rs 12,000. If the company does not come forward for discussions today, we will be forced to intensify our protests, bringing our families into this fight,” another protester warned.
The employees have vowed to continue their protests unless the company agrees to meet with them and address their concerns about wage increases and improved working conditions. With no resolution in sight, the workers say they are prepared to escalate their actions in the coming days.
This protest has brought to light the ongoing issues faced by local workers employed by large companies in the region, raising questions about the long-term impact of industrial development on local communities.
