Assam's Margherita tea workers mark Labour Day with tribute, sports, and solidarity

Workers and community leaders gathered at the Topside Playground of Margherita Tea Estate on Thursday for the 19th annual International Labour Day celebration, hosted by the Margherita Branch of the Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha (ACMS).

The day began with the ACMS flag hoisting by branch president Gautam Dhanowar, followed by a solemn tribute to the late Pradip Nag, former president of the All Adivasi Student Association of Assam (AASAA). Attendees also observed a moment of silence for the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

The open session, chaired by Dhanowar and conducted by ACMS Margherita secretary Hari Nand Gorh, drew participation from key figures across the region. Notable attendees included Bhaskar Paul, chief manager of Margherita Tea Estate; Rajendra Rai, a well-known social worker; representatives from local tea gardens; and members of AASAA and the Assam Tea Tribes Students' Association (ATTSA).

As part of the celebration, a series of sports competitions were held for tea garden workers and their families. These events, inaugurated by Paul, included participants from all age groups and highlighted community involvement.

The programme concluded with a cultural showcase featuring performances that reflected the diversity and resilience of the tea garden community.