PNS n Vijayawada
A tense atmosphere engulfed Gangavaram port on Thursday as a significant number of workers attempted to breach its premises. In the ensuing clash, several workers sustained injuries when the police employed lathi charges to disperse the agitated crowd.
In response to the call given by the port workers’ union, a large number of port workers attempted to besiege the port. Their demands, which include service regularisation and wage increases, were aimed at the port’s management.
The scenario escalated as over 3,000 protesting port workers converged near the main entrance, only to be thwarted by a resolute police presence. Despite attempts by the agitators to forcefully enter the port, the police employed measures to prevent unauthorised access.
The situation reached a boiling point when the police resorted to lathi charges, resulting in a physical altercation between law enforcement and the demonstrators. Amidst the chaos, several female activists fainted, while others suffered injuries.
In response, the police erected a robust iron barricade at the main gate to deter further unauthorized entry attempts.
A poignant incident occurred as Gajuwaka CI sustained a bleeding injury when an iron fence’s sharp needle pierced his foot. Additionally, two constables suffered head injuries, and ten workers were also hurt during the agitation. The protest was attended by leaders from various political parties and trade unions.
Subsequently, the police apprehended and relocated the political and trade union leaders to police facilities. These leaders questioned the state government’s decision to transfer control of Gangavaram port to the Adani Company.
The primary demands of the protesting workers encompassed the reintegration of ousted workers, a minimum wage increase to Rs 36,000, and the regularization of contract employees’ positions.
Remarkably, the Gangavaram port management eventually acceded to some of the workers’ demands. The management has committed to reinstating ousted workers, along with an additional monthly payment of Rs 10,000. Furthermore, an annual increment and an extra Rs 1000 will be included in the remuneration package.
