Leader of opposition grills govt over industrial shutdowns, worker compensation in Chhattisgarh assembly

RAIPUR: During Thursday's assembly question hour, Opposition Leader Dr Charandas Mahant addressed concerns about industrial shutdowns and their impact on workers' livelihoods. He specifically questioned the closures of induction furnace rolling mills and sugar factories, demanding the state government's accountability regarding worker compensation.
Dr Mahant directed queries to Industry Minister Lakhanlal Dewangan about industrial closures between January 2024 and 2025, seeking clarity on employment measures and compensation for affected staff.
When Minister Dewangan appeared hesitant in providing comprehensive answers, Speaker Dr Raman Singh stepped in, suggesting Dr Mahant to be more precise with his questions.
Dr Mahant pointed out specific cases, including the shuttered Bhoramdev factory in Pandaria and a facility in Surajpur district. He criticised the administration's failure to ensure fair sugarcane prices, which led to reduced farming and subsequent factory closures.
Regarding industrial development, Dr Mahant enquired about new steel plant establishments between 2024 and 2025 to offset mini steel plant closures. Minister Dewangan acknowledged that whilst discussions with industrialists were ongoing, no new steel facilities had been established.
On worker welfare, Dr Mahant sought details about employment status and compensation. Minister Dewangan confirmed that whilst no payments had been made yet, workers would receive compensation according to the Labour Act provisions.
Following the Speaker's intervention, Dr Mahant emphasised worker welfare concerns, stating, "What is the purpose of an industrial policy if it fails to protect both industries and workers?"
Minister Dewangan assured that compensation would be distributed as per legal requirements and mentioned ongoing efforts to attract new industries, though without specifying concrete timeframes.