‘Factory quarantine’ not possible, say Ludhiana bizmen

Reeling under losses in crores and glaring at an uncertain future, the Ludhiana industry that comprises small scale parts, sewing machine, cycle parts and hosiery manufacturing units has largely opposed the decision of administration to open the factories, stating that it is not possible to operate with restrictions and no transportation facility.

The industry slammed the state government and district administration stating that on one hand the Prime Minister has ordered complete lockdown, the state government, on the other hand, has allowed the industry to open just to shift the responsibility of the labourers on to the factory owners.

The industrial associations further decried that the government had adopted divide and rule policy for sidelining the demands of the industry including extension in the last date of submitting power bills and waiving off fixed electricity charges.

“It is not possible to run the industry under these conditions when no transportation of raw material and finished goods has been assured,” said DS Chawla, president, United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA). “How will an industrialist manage to get the medical checkup done? How is it possible for labourers to maintain a certain distance while working in the factory?” said Chawla, adding that if something goes wrong, the administration will penalise the owner.

If the government is concerned over the movement and safety of labourers, then it should make arrangements at the labour quarters rather than putting the burden on the industry,” he added.

President of Federation of Punjab Small Industries Association (FOPSIA), Badish Jindal, said, “The conditions which have been imposed are impractical. Not even a percent of the industry will stand by the decision.”

Association of Focal Point Industries president Pankaj Sharma said it is a hopeless decision taken by the state government at a time when the entire world is taking stringent measures to contain the disease. “The PM has also announced that there should be a complete lockdown, but the administration’s decision will be a disaster instead of relief,” he said.

Knitwear and Textile Club president Vinod Thapar said the decision will reap zero benefit for the industry as only a few units will have the infrastructure required for compliance. “Even if the industry is made operational, where will the owners supply the goods as the transportation has also been suspended,” he said.

‘SUPPORT LABOURERS’

Chairman of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII, Punjab (northern region)) Rahul Ahuja appealed to the industry to support labourers at such time of need. “At least those industrialists who have the required infrastructure should come forward. Though not profitable, it should be done for the benefit of the labourers,” he said.