Dharna continues outside Labor Minister’s residence in Khanna: Demand for compensation and job to the family on the death of Powercom employee, funeral stopped for 5 days

 Khanna | In the heart of Punjab’s Khanna, a poignant scene of protest unfolds as the family of a deceased Powercom contract worker, Gurpreet Singh, continues their vigil outside the official residence of Labour Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh for the fifth consecutive day, their unwavering demonstration commencing on the first day of May. The catalyst for this impassioned outcry is the tragic demise of Gurpreet Singh, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a road accident while on duty, a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those engaged in precarious employment. Hailing from a humble background, Gurpreet Singh shouldered the responsibility of his family’s sustenance on a meager monthly income of ₹10,000, their lives unfolding within the confines of a rudimentary dwelling. The palpable anguish of the bereaved family is further compounded by the alleged silence from the minister or any member of his kin, a perceived indifference that has amplified the sense of injustice and fueled the resolve of fellow workers and their union. Leading the charge for justice is the Theka Karamchari Sangharsh Morcha Punjab, with its leader Balihar Singh articulating the profound significance of this struggle as a battle for the rights and dignity of all contract employees. The union’s demands are clear and resonant: a compensation of ₹20 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to provide a semblance of security for the grieving family, coupled with the offer of permanent employment to a family member, a measure aimed at ensuring long-term stability in the wake of their irreplaceable loss. While the local administration convened a meeting on Monday and proposed a financial assistance of ₹2 lakh, this offer was met with resolute rejection by the union, deemed woefully inadequate in addressing the profound human and economic impact of this tragedy. Jagdev Singh, a prominent union leader, underscored the unwavering commitment to their cause, declaring their intent to intensify the struggle by joining forces with 14 other social and trade unions, a united front poised to amplify their collective voice and exert greater pressure for a just resolution. The gravity of the situation is further underscored by the agonizing delay in the final rites of the deceased, with Gurpreet Singh’s mortal remains awaiting cremation for five long days, a testament to the unwavering determination of his family and fellow workers to secure what they perceive as their rightful due before bidding him farewell. This protracted vigil serves as a powerful indictment of the challenges faced by contract workers, highlighting issues of job security, inadequate compensation in the face of workplace hazards, and the perceived lack of empathy from those in positions of power. The unfolding events in Khanna resonate beyond the immediate tragedy, casting a spotlight on the broader socio-economic landscape and the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and dignified working conditions for marginalized sections of the workforce. The solidarity displayed by the union and the support from other organizations underscore the collective recognition of the systemic issues at play and the urgent need for more robust safeguards and compassionate responses to such unfortunate incidents. As the days turn into nights outside the minister’s residence, the silent yet powerful protest serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of precarious employment and the enduring quest for justice and dignity in the face of adversity. The unresolved situation underscores the urgent need for dialogue, empathy, and a meaningful resolution that acknowledges the profound loss suffered by the family and addresses the broader concerns of contract workers in the state.