Anger Erupts in Kishtwar Over Worker’s Death, Ex-Minister Sarooori Stands with Protestors
Kishtwar, 08 Nov., 2024: Tension escalated in Kishtwar district on Friday as locals protested the tragic death of Ghulam Hussain Dar, a roller operator working for JP Company on a power project site in Dangduru, Kishtwar. Dar, a father of five daughters and resident of Dadpath, Kishtwar, was fatally injured after being struck by a tanker while on duty. His death has sparked outrage within the community, as people demand accountability from power project companies operating in the area over alleged safety negligence.
Family members of the deceased, alongside local residents and community leaders, gathered outside the District Hospital Kishtwar to demand justice for Dar, holding the company responsible for failing to provide a safe working environment. Among the protestors was former Roads & Buildings (R&B) Minister G.M. Saroori, a respected regional leader, who joined the grieving family in a show of solidarity. Saroori’s presence lent strength to the protests’ demands, emphasizing the need for accountability and improved safety standards in large-scale infrastructure projects in Kishtwar.
The tragic accident reportedly occurred as Dar was working near the project’s heavy machinery and was struck by a passing tanker, leading to fatal injuries. Eyewitnesses and locals claim that inadequate safety protocols at the construction site contributed to the incident. Many believe the company has consistently neglected worker safety, despite previous incidents. News of Dar’s death quickly spread, drawing a large crowd to protest outside both the District Hospital and JP Company’s local office. Protestors accused power project companies of prioritizing profits over the well-being of workers, citing a pattern of negligence.
G.M. Saroori’s arrival at the protest bolstered the morale of the crowd. Saroori, a well-known figure in the area, has previously spoken out against power project companies for their neglect of local workers’ safety and the adverse impacts of their activities. Addressing the crowd, he extended condolences to Dar’s family, demanded an immediate investigation, and pledged to hold the company accountable. “Every worker’s life is precious,” Saroori told the gathering. “These corporations must be responsible for ensuring a safe work environment. We will not rest until we see justice for Ghulam Hussain Dar and improved safety measures for all workers.”
Protestors called for swift action, urging authorities to launch a thorough investigation into Dar’s death to determine if safety violations contributed to the incident. They are also demanding adequate compensation for Dar’s family, especially given that he was the sole provider for his five daughters. The community stressed the need for stricter safety protocols at all project sites, including proper training, protective equipment, and routine safety inspections to protect workers from similar tragedies.
