In a major show of dissent, thousands of employees at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) began an indefinite strike on May 21, 2025, protesting against what they termed as unjust and large-scale layoffs. The strike, led by multiple trade unions, has brought operations at one of India’s key public sector steel plants to a grinding halt.

 

The employees allege that the management's decision to lay off a significant portion of the workforce is part of a larger privatization agenda and lacks transparency. Union leaders claimed that over 1,500 workers are set to lose their jobs under the current restructuring plan.

Union Reaction:
Leaders from various unions, including the VSP Employees Union and Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), said they had exhausted all channels of dialogue and were left with no choice but to strike. Demonstrations were held at the plant’s entrance, with workers raising slogans against the central government's disinvestment policies.

Demands from the Workers:

• Immediate halt to layoffs

• Transparent review of restructuring plans

• Job security assurances

• Involvement of employee representatives in policy decisions

Political and Public Support:
Several political parties and local leaders have extended their support to the workers, urging the government to reconsider its approach. The strike has also triggered concerns among the plant's stakeholders and residents of Visakhapatnam, who fear a potential economic and social impact if the issue remains unresolved.

Government Response:
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Ministry of Steel or the plant's management. However, talks are expected to be initiated in the coming days as the strike continues to disrupt operations.

 

The Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has been at the center of controversy since the central government floated proposals for strategic disinvestment. Employees have staged multiple protests in the past, but the current strike marks the most serious escalation so far.