Pulwama, July 16: Employees of Arco Cements at Khrew in Pulwama district on Thursday launched a strike, demanding a fair wage revision, better welfare measures and the reinstatement of former Union President Nazir Ahmad Wani.

The workers staged a protest outside the cement plant, holding placards and raising slogans. They alleged that despite their contribution to the company's growth, no meaningful salary revision had been implemented for the past two years.

The employees also expressed disappointment over reports of a proposed wage increase of only ₹500, saying the amount was inadequate amid rising living costs and inflation.

They called for a wage hike in line with prevailing economic conditions, timely implementation of welfare benefits and effective representation to safeguard workers' rights.

The protesting employees further demanded the reinstatement of former Union President Nazir Ahmad Wani with full dignity and consequential benefits. They said Wani had served the workforce for a long time and consistently worked for the welfare of employees.

The workers maintained that their protest was peaceful and within the framework of law. They said their objective was to seek justice, dignity and fair treatment.

The employees appealed to the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Assistant Labour Commissioner Pulwama, MLA Pampore Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi and other concerned authorities to intervene and facilitate dialogue between the management and workers for an early and amicable resolution of the dispute.