Tensions flared outside the Jalandhar Police Commissioner’s office today as employees of OK Factory staged a protest, demanding justice in an ongoing dispute between Promix and OK Factory. The workers allege that, despite a court case being underway and a deadline of September 6 set for vacating the factory premises, they were forcibly evicted before the allotted time.
According to the protesting employees, the court had given OK Factory until September 6 to vacate the premises. However, they claim that the owner of Promix Factory sent more than 100 individuals dressed in khaki uniforms—initially mistaken for police officers—who forcibly removed both male and female workers from the factory. The employees allege that after the eviction, around 30 people in khaki uniforms remained inside the factory and locked the premises.
Palak, an OK Factory worker, recounted the incident: “On the 10th, over 100 people in khaki uniforms arrived and pushed us out. At first, we thought they were police, but later realized they were security personnel from Promix Factory. After removing us, about 30 of them stayed inside and locked the factory.”
The workers have accused the administration of inaction, stating that they have been seeking justice for three days with no response. Today, they gathered outside the Police Commissioner’s office, holding placards and demanding an end to what they called “Punjab Police’s hooliganism.” They insist that while legal matters are being handled by senior officials, the mistreatment and manhandling of workers is unacceptable.
Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur addressed the protesters, assuring them that statements are being recorded and a thorough investigation is underway. “Action will be taken based on the findings,” she said.
Meanwhile, Sharad Agrawal, who claims to have sold OK Factory to another party, stated that although the property’s registry has been completed, possession had not yet been handed over. He confirmed that over 200 employees were still working at the factory when bouncers from Promix Factory allegedly arrived and forced them out, halting all operations. Agrawal added that the incident occurred even though the court deadline for vacating the premises was set for September 6.
The situation remains tense as employees await administrative action and seek assurance that their rights and safety will be protected during the ongoing dispute.