SIDDIPET : A tense situation unfolded on Monday at the Deccan Cement factory in Palakeedu mandal, Suryapet district, after a migrant workers’ protest turned into a violent clash with police. The protestors were demanding compensation for the family of Vinod (45), a labourer from Uttar Pradesh, who died of a heart attack on Sunday.
According to police, Vinod, a native of Kakar Ghat in Kas Karoor taluka, Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, was employed through Awat Outsourcing Agency and lived in the labour colony behind the factory. On Sunday at around 5 pm, he suffered a heart attack while washing clothes. He was rushed to the Government Hospital in Miryalaguda, where doctors declared him dead. His body was handed over to his family, and the factory management arranged an ambulance to transport it to Uttar Pradesh at their own expense.
On Monday morning, workers gathered at the factory gate demanding compensation. Palakeedu police, led by SI Kotesh, reached the spot. He appealed to the workers to end the protest and suggested that four representatives could discuss the matter with the management.
However, the workers rejected the appeal and attacked the police with stones and sticks, forcing officers to resort to lathicharge. Two police vehicles were damaged, along with windows of the factory’s security room, flower pots and plants. SI Kotesh and a constable sustained minor injuries.
The factory is now under police control. Suryapet SP K Narasimha visited the site, stating that around 100 to 150 people were involved, and special teams have been formed to identify them.