Surat diamond workers  Announce Strike from March 30

Surat: In a major development, the Diamond Workers Union Gujarat (DWUG) has announced an indefinite strike in the diamond industry starting from March 30, protesting against the rising financial crisis among diamond artisans, unemployment, and massive wage cuts.

A video of diamond workers urging fellow artisans in Surat and Gujarat to participate in the strike has gone viral on social media, reflecting the growing unrest among laborers in the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing hub.

Economic Crisis in the Diamond Industry

The diamond industry in Surat and Gujarat has been grappling with a prolonged recession for the last two years, leading to significant unemployment and wage reductions. Despite this crisis, big diamond companies and industry bodies like the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) have not taken any concrete measures to support struggling workers.

“The condition of diamond artisans is worsening every day. Many have lost jobs, and those still employed are barely earning enough to survive. Factory owners have slashed wages drastically, making it impossible for workers to support their families,” said Bhavesh Tank, Vice President of DWUG.

Government’s Inaction Frustrates Workers

Amidst this crisis, Gujarat Chief Minister had previously assured that an action plan would be prepared within two days to address the concerns of the diamond workers. However, no official announcement has been made so far, further deepening the frustration among workers.

To address these concerns, the Gujarat government had also formed a special committee, including Home Affairs Minister Harsh Sanghavi, to find solutions for the struggling diamond artisans. However, the committee has yet to deliver any relief package or financial aid.

“We informed the Surat District Collector on March 10 through a representation that diamond workers would go on an indefinite strike from March 30 if the state government failed to provide solutions. We have held multiple meetings, but no action has been taken yet,” said Bhavesh Tank.

Workers Demand Immediate Relief

The diamond workers are demanding:

Government intervention to provide financial relief to struggling artisans

Fair wages and an end to unjust salary cuts imposed by factory owners

Job security measures to prevent further layoffs in the industry

Active support from major diamond industry players like GJEPC to safeguard the workforce

“We still request the government to assist diamond workers and announce a relief package. But if no proactive measures are taken, we have no choice but to go on strike from March 30,” added Bhavesh Tank.

Industry on the Brink of Crisis

With over 700,000 diamond artisans employed in Surat’s diamond industry, the upcoming strike could severely impact production, exports, and overall industry stability. The strike call has already started gaining momentum, with workers from multiple diamond hubs in Gujarat showing their support.

The Gujarat government and industry leaders now face immense pressure to address the workers’ concerns before the March 30 deadline. Failure to act could lead to massive disruptions in the global diamond supply chain and further economic distress for thousands of workers.