Massive Rally in Padhar Highlights Environmental Destruction, Labour Exploitation by Gawar Company.
Villagers Demand Expert Committee to Assess Damage; INTUC Leads Protest.
Shimla:
A large-scale protest rally was organized on Monday, July 28, at 11 a.m. outside the office of Gawar Construction Company near Sahal (Padhar) in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. The rally, held under the banner of the District Unit of INTUC (Indian National Trade Union Congress), saw participation from hundreds of affected villagers, unorganised farmers, women from Mahila Mandals, and local leaders from villages including Sahal, Maigal, Mehar, Tandu, Drang, Pali, Kunnu, Mohar Dhar, and Narla.
The protest was led by INTUC District President and State Vice President, Y.P. Kapoor. He was joined by key leaders such as Er. S.D. Chandla (Advisor), Naresh Sharma (General Secretary), Hitender Thakur (Central INTUC Leader of Construction Workers Union), Mahender Singh, Puran Chand (President, Kishan Four Lane Vikas Samiti), Sharvan Kumar, Satish, and Naganu Ram.
During the rally, serious concerns were raised about the ongoing unscientific and non-technical hill-cutting work carried out by Gawar Construction Company in the region, despite persistent heavy rainfall. Locals claim this has resulted in severe environmental degradation, landslides, and destruction of agricultural land. Women from Manna village, visibly emotional, narrated how their lands have been damaged and rendered unusable, with even temples, cremation grounds, footpaths, and traditional water canals (kuhals) being adversely affected.
The rally also brought attention to alleged violations of labour laws by the company, including the use of child labour and the victimization of workers. Despite prior complaints and cognizance taken by the SDM of Padhar, villagers allege that no concrete action has been taken against the company.
In a unanimous resolution passed during the rally, the protestors demanded that the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, immediately constitute an expert committee to inspect the affected areas, assess the damage, and hold the responsible parties accountable. A memorandum detailing the grievances and demands was formally submitted to the Chief Minister through the Deputy Commissioner of Mandi.
The protest reflects growing public resentment against the alleged negligence and exploitation by construction companies operating in the region under large infrastructure projects. Locals have called for immediate government intervention to safeguard their environment, livelihoods, and rights.
