Lockout in Hatijan Tea Estate Leaves Workers Jobless

Over 400 workers at Hatijan Tea Estate in Duliajan face financial insecurity following a lockout since December 31, 2024. The closure resulted from a violent protest on December 30, where some workers assaulted the garden manager over work disputes.

Management cited safety concerns and suspended operations, withholding wages and rations. However, workers have expressed remorse, signed a resolution ensuring peace, and aim to restore normalcy.

Trade union leaders remain hopeful of an amicable resolution, with plans to submit the resolution to the Assistant Labour Commissioner to facilitate conciliation and reopen the estate.