Clash breaks out at Naharlagun Railway Station over labour engagement; police restore order

Tension prevailed at Naharlagun Railway Station in Arunachal Pradesh after a clash broke out between members of the All Arunachal Pradesh Railway Construction Loading and Unloading Workers Union and tender owners over the engagement of labourers for railway parcel loading and unloading work.

The confrontation reportedly involved tender owners Kipa Amosh and Kipa Vivek and members of the workers' union during an inspection of loading and unloading activities at the railway station. The dispute centred on the engagement of local labourers through the union.

Police personnel, led by Papu Hill Police Station Officer-in-Charge Torun Mai, rushed to the spot and intervened to bring the situation under control and prevent further violence.

Following the incident, the workers' union alleged irregularities in the engagement of labourers, raising concerns over the employment of non-local workers and compliance with Inner Line Permit (ILP) regulations. The union claimed that proper procedures were not being followed in the hiring of workers.

Responding to the allegations, tender owners Kipa Vivek and Kipa Amosh said the confrontation occurred during the union's inspection of the ongoing loading and unloading operations. They also placed their version of events on record regarding the claims made by the union.

Speaking to India Today NE, All Arunachal Pradesh Railway Construction Loading and Unloading Workers Union president Sampa Rebe said the union's objective is to promote employment opportunities for indigenous youth in railway-related work amid rising unemployment in the state.

Rebe said the union also wants labourers engaged by contractors to be properly registered and documented, noting that Naharlagun Railway Station is a key entry point into the state where security remains a major concern. He added that workers handling luggage and parcel vans should undergo proper verification and be regulated through the union.

Officer-in-Charge Torun Mai said the police acted promptly to control the situation and were mediating between the two groups to ensure peace and prevent any further violence. No injuries or arrests were immediately reported.