International Labour Day Observed at Balimela with Concern Over Workers Still Struggling for Their Rights and Welfare

Balimela, May 08:  International Labour Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at Balimela in Malkangiri district, where workers highlighted their continued struggle for fair wages, safety, and labour rights.
Observed every year on May 1, Labour Day honours the hard work and contribution of workers toward nation-building. On this occasion, issues related to labour rights, job security, and fair remuneration are discussed across the world. However, speakers at the event said that even today workers continue to fight for their basic rights, including minimum wages and proper working conditions.
The programme in Balimela reflected these concerns, with labour organisations and workers raising slogans demanding justice, dignity, and fulfilment of their long-pending demands. Participants stated that many labourers are still forced to work for very low wages and continue to face exploitation in different sectors.
The celebrations were organised on a grand scale with participation from several labour unions, including the Balimela Power Project Employees’ Union, OSEB Union, Balimela Hydro Power Contract Workers’ Union, Balimela Power Project Security Union, Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha, Maa Durga Construction Union, and district tribal organisations.
According to reports, the programme began at 9 AM with flag hoisting at the office of the Balimela Power Project Employees’ Union. Workers raised slogans such as “Long Live Labour Day” and “Long Live Workers’ Unity” and distributed sweets among themselves.
Later in the evening, thousands of members from various labour organisations joined a massive rally that started from Nuasahi and passed through Gopabandhu Chowk and Kali Chowk before concluding at the Balimela Power Project Employees’ Union office at Dragline area. During the rally, workers shouted slogans demanding implementation of labour rights and protesting against government policies affecting workers.
A large public meeting was later organised where AITUC Odisha General Secretary Bijay Jena attended as the chief guest. Advisor of the Tribal Dalit Development Council Bijay Upadhyay joined as the keynote speaker.
Among the guests present were Mangu Khila, OUJ state secretary Deba Prasad Dash, and Tribal Association president Balraj Gamel, who addressed the gathering and spoke about the need to protect workers’ rights and dignity.
The event concluded after arrangements were made for meals for all participating workers. The programme was organised with the support of union leaders including Prabir Das, Pindu Mishra, Santosh Panda, K. Mohan Rao, Anil Kumar Pattnaik, Ravi Dayini, Santosh Kumar Gantayat, Narasingha Khul, Montu Patra, and several other members.