The workers of Prism Johnson Ltd. RMC (India) has been locked in a prolonged struggle after the company abruptly issued an illegal “Notice of Closure” without prior consultation. On July 19th, workers arriving at the Veerasandra and Yelahanka plants found the gates closed, guarded by bouncers hired by the company. Management refused to speak with the workers, who were left stranded, blindsided by the sudden shutdown enacted just after the night shift had ended.
For over two decades, the Karnataka General Labour Union has organised the workforce at Prism Johnson Ltd., helping them secure better working conditions and collective bargaining power. The company, however, has consistently undermined these efforts, relying heavily on contract workers hired through sham contractors to avoid granting them the rights and job security that permanent employees deserve. Many of these contract workers, having served the company for years, have been demanding regular employment, which the company has persistently denied. The closure appears to be a strategy to replace unionised workers with cheaper contract labour while continuing production activities within the plant, blatantly violating labour laws that require proper permissions for closures.
The company’s refusal to engage with the union reflects a broader erosion of labour rights in India. The new labour codes, introduced by the BJP-led central government, have given companies unprecedented power to hire and fire workers with little accountability. The dilution of collective bargaining rights and restrictions on strikes have left workers more vulnerable to exploitation. Prism Johnson Ltd.’s actions are part of a disturbing trend where employers, emboldened by these laws, crush unions and curtail workers’ rights with impunity.
Despite these challenges, the workers have shown incredible resolve, sitting in protest outside the factory gates for over a hundred days. By blocking the movement of machinery and vehicles in and out of the factory, they have managed to apply significant pressure on the company. However, rather than addressing the workers’ concerns, the management sought police intervention through the High Court to remove the protesters. However, in a small but significant victory, the High Court rejected their plea, allowing the workers to continue their peaceful protest. An additional layer of pressure has come from the landowner, who is reportedly urging the company to vacate the premises, further complicating the company’s position. However, the battle is not yet over, and the workers need continued support to sustain their fight.
Public solidarity is crucial at this stage. The workers have fought courageously, but their struggle is part of a larger movement to protect labour rights in the face of increasing corporate impunity. By visiting the protest site and lending support, we urge our readers, be it students, progressive youth, civil society members, etc. to amplify the workers’ demands and force the company to negotiate. This struggle is not just about the 100-plus workers at Prism Johnson Ltd. RMC (India). It is about protecting the right to dignified employment, unionisation, and collective bargaining in an environment increasingly hostile to workers. Now is the time for everyone who believes in justice to stand with these workers and demand the reopening of the factory and accountability for the company’s illegal actions.
