Diamond Workers Stage Dharna in Surat, Demand Wage Hike at Laxmi Diamond

Surat : Over 500 diamond workers employed by Laxmi Diamond, a De Beers sightholder company, have taken to the streets in Surat, staging a dharna (sit-in protest) outside the Surat district collector’s office.

The workers, supported by the Diamond Workers Union Gujarat (DWUG), are demanding a wage hike and have accused the company of exploitation, human rights violations, and abusive language by the management. The protest, initiated by more than 150 diamond workers, commenced on Saturday following the submission of a memorandum outlining their grievances.

Led by the DWUG, the diamond workers are seeking a wage increase and improved working conditions. Their discontent with Laxmi Diamond’s management practices prompted the revolt, which began on May 25, 2023. Despite holding discussions with the company’s management and allowing a 30-day grace period for resolution, the workers claim that their demands have been largely ignored. Consequently, they have resorted to a dharna as a means to escalate their protest and draw attention to their cause.

The Diamond Workers Union Gujarat has taken up the mantle of advocating for the rights of the diamond workers at Laxmi Diamond. According to Bhavesh Tank, the union’s vice-president, the company has shown a lack of responsiveness and failed to address the workers’ concerns during meetings with labor department officials. In light of this, the workers have commenced the dharna, vowing to remain camped outside the collector’s office until their demands are met.

Laxmi Diamond holds the prestigious status of being a De Beers sightholder company, adding significance to the ongoing labor dispute. As a major player in the diamond industry, Laxmi Diamond’s alleged mistreatment of its workers and disregard for their demands have sparked a growing rift between the management and employees. The diamond workers are determined to hold the company accountable for its practices and ensure fair treatment and remuneration.

The diamond workers’ dharna outside the collector’s office serves as a powerful symbol of their unified struggle for justice and improved working conditions. The ongoing protest highlights the urgent need for dialogue and negotiation between the workers, Laxmi Diamond’s management, and relevant authorities. The DWUG and its supporters aim to raise awareness about the workers’ plight and press for a positive outcome that addresses their demands.