Srinagar, 1 July (H.S.): Coal mine workers in Mogla area of Kalakote sub-division today staged a strong protest against the Jammu and Kashmir administration, raising slogans and demanding immediate resumption of work and marking of their attendance.

Leading the protest, workers including Joginder Singh and Krishna Singh said that around 274 workers of the New Mogla coal mine have been sitting idle for the last five days, with neither work allotted nor attendance recorded. The mine, operated under J&K Minerals Limited, has been shut following an official inspection that reportedly uncovered serious regulatory lapses.

The protesting workers said they were informed by the authorities that during the inspection, multiple deficiencies were found in the mine’s operations. Chief among these were the absence of a duly appointed mine manager, no qualified engineer to oversee machinery operations, and violations of safety and operational regulations. As a result, all mining activities have been halted until the deficiencies are rectified.

Expressing resentment, the workers argued that they are not responsible for these administrative shortcomings. “We have been working here for years. If there were violations, why were they not flagged earlier? And why should we be punished for faults not of our doing?” said one of the agitated workers.

They also raised concerns about their livelihood. “If attendance is not marked, we will not be paid. How are we supposed to run our homes?” they questioned, urging the Government and concerned departments to address the situation urgently.

The workers appealed to the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to intervene, ensure compliance is achieved swiftly, and allow them to resume work without further delay.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar