Verka Plunges into Crisis: Outsourced Staff Launch Disruptive 3-Day Strike Over Core Demands

Mohali finds itself in the midst of a significant labor dispute as outsourced employees at Verka’s flagship milk plant in Industrial Area Phase VI have initiated a compelling three-day strike. The industrial action, which commenced on Tuesday, has already begun to disrupt the vital operations of the cooperative, underscoring deep-seated grievances among the workforce.

The striking workers, primarily outsourced through contractors, are demanding nothing less than regularization of their employment, along with substantial increases in their salaries and a suite of benefits that currently elude them.

Their fervent protest highlights a persistent struggle for fair treatment and job security within the critical dairy sector.

Led by the influential Verka Mohali Employees’ Union, the demonstration saw hundreds of workers gather in front of the plant’s main gate, chanting powerful slogans that resonated with their collective demand for justice.

Kuldeep Singh, the union president, articulated the heart of their demands, stating, "We have been working at this plant for years, but our employment is still precarious. We demand regularization of our jobs, a significant hike in our meagre salaries, and other benefits on par with permanent staff members."

The union's leadership further clarified that despite repeated attempts to engage with both the Verka management and relevant government authorities, their pleas have largely fallen on deaf ears.

"We have approached the management and the government several times, but our demands have not been met. We are left with no option but to go on a strike," Singh emphasized, painting a picture of frustration and a last resort measure.

The immediate consequence of this industrial action is a palpable slowdown in the milk processing and packaging operations.

Verka, a cornerstone of daily milk supply in the region, faces the challenge of potentially reduced output, which could lead to supply chain disruptions for consumers dependent on its products.

While Verka officials have yet to issue an official statement addressing the strike, the ongoing protest signals a critical juncture for the cooperative.

The coming days will be crucial in determining the impact on milk supply and whether a resolution can be found between the agitated outsourced staff and the management.