Fact-finding team blames oil firm, police for violence

A team led by K Balasubramaniam, state executive committee member of All India Central Council of Trade Unions, handed over the report of their findings to District Revenue Officer C Santhoshini Chandra.

Seven cops were injured after migrant workers unleashed violence demanding compensation for the death of their colleague, who was knocked down by a lorry on the company premises. In the aftermath of the incident, the Modakurichi police arrested 40 North Indian workers.

Speaking to reporters, Balasubramaniam said the irate workers were further instigated by the callous management and police. “The workers sought in writing for compensation to the kin of the deceased worker. But, their genuine demand was ignored. Also, the police acted irresponsibly by using force against the workers, who then retaliated,” he said.

The committee urged the police to withdraw the ‘unwarranted’ attempt to murder case booked against the workers and wanted the labour department to inspect and ensure proper implementation of labour laws in the private firm. They also wanted action to be taken against the management and police for their poor handling of the situation.