Watch: Tension at Deccan Cements as migrant workers clash with police in Suryapet
Tension erupted at Deccan Cements Limited in Palakeedu, Suryapet, when migrant workers demanding ex gratia for a deceased colleague clashed with police. A police vehicle was damaged, personnel suffered minor injuries, and several workers were taken into custody after stone pelting
Suryapet: The death of a migrant worker triggered unrest at the Deccan Cement Factory in Bhavanipuram village of Palakeedu mandal in Suryapet district, turning the premises into the centre of a pitched battle on Monday morning. Three police personnel, including a sub-inspector, were injured as they came under attack from agitated workers, most of them from Bihar. Police forces were later deployed in large numbers.
The trouble began when a labourer from Bihar suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty. Eyewitnesses said the worker collapsed during his shift and, despite colleagues rushing him to a nearby hospital, doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Enraged over his death, fellow workers staged a sit-in protest inside the factory premises, demanding a thorough investigation into workplace conditions, immediate compensation for the victim’s family and better on-site medical facilities.
Banners reading “Justice for Our Brother” and “No More Neglect” were displayed at the entrance as protesters blocked access to the main gate and halted factory operations. A team of local police, led by Sub-Inspector Kotesh, reached the factory to defuse tensions. However, the protesters accused officials of inaction.
The situation turned violent when the workers allegedly hurled stones and attacked SI Kotesh and two constables with sticks, leaving them with minor injuries. The mob also damaged a police patrol vehicle, shattering its windows and forcing the team to retreat. Videos showed workers chasing police personnel. Additional forces, including the Rapid Action Force, were later deployed and cordoned off the area to prevent further escalation.
