Goldi Solar Workers Protest: Wage Hike, PF & Benefits Demand Gains Momentum

Surat | Gujarat — In a dramatic escalation that has rattled one of India’s biggest renewable energy manufacturers, over 800 workers at Goldi Solar’s Kosamba plant in Surat staged a massive protest and demonstration on Thursday, demanding wage hikes, reduced transportation and canteen fees, PF compliance, and basic medical benefits. The agitation, which entered its sixth consecutive day, brought operations to a near-standstill at the sprawling solar PV module manufacturing facility.

Goldi Solar—now India’s largest solar module manufacturer with a staggering 14.7 GW annual capacity—has been in the spotlight for its unprecedented expansion over the past year. But for the workers who power this growth, the frustration had been simmering for months.

AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava Steps In

To defuse the crisis, AAP MLA from Dediapada, Chaitar Vasava, along with leaders from eight talukas across Surat and Bharuch districts, reached the Kosamba plant and held a marathon meeting with senior company management.

Speaking to reporters after the negotiations, Vasava said the workers’ plight could no longer be ignored.

“A few days ago, Goldi Solar employees approached me with a 10-point memorandum,” Vasava said.

“They were being harassed. Around 850 workers have been on strike for six days. Low wages, high transport and canteen costs, no medical facilities, no proper PF deposits—these are genuine issues. We discussed each point with the management.”

Following the meeting, Vasava confirmed that the company had accepted around six major demands, including a 10% reduction in transportation and canteen fees.

Confusion Over PF and Wage Hike

Even as the breakthrough was announced, some confusion continues over the PF deduction process and wage revision clauses.

“PF and wage hike issues have some discrepancies that the management needs to clarify,” Vasava added.

“We’ve appealed to the young workers to maintain peace. If the company meets all demands, the strike will end by Saturday.”

Workers have also demanded that 85% of local residents be given employment, as mandated under government norms. This issue was formally placed before the management during the negotiations.

Goldi Solar’s Rapid Growth, Workers’ Slow Relief

The protest highlights the widening gap between the company’s record-breaking expansion—from 3 GW to 14.7 GW in just 12 months—and the day-to-day struggles of its workforce.

Workers say that despite contributing to this massive growth, they face stagnant wages, financial deductions, and lack access to basic employee welfare facilities.

Will the Strike End?

The situation remains tense but hopeful. If the management formally agrees to all points in writing, workers are prepared to resume duty by Saturday.

If not, Vasava has warned that the strike could intensify:

“If demands are not accepted, we will work with the union to decide the next strategy.”