Contract Workers Protest for Job Security at Digboi Refinery

Around 150 contract workers at the Digboi refinery staged a protest demanding job security and better medical facilities. Despite numerous discussions with Indian Oil Corporation, their grievances remain unresolved. The workers are particularly concerned about the renewal of their contracts, which expired in September 2025. They have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met, warning of intensified agitation if no action is taken. The protest has also impacted refinery operations, highlighting the urgency of their situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 10, 2026, 15:16 IST

Protest by Contract Workers at Digboi Refinery

Contract workers protesting in front of the Digboi Refinery, on Thursday. (AT Photo)

Digboi, Sept 10: Approximately 150 contract workers from the Digboi refinery organized a demonstration outside the administrative building on Thursday, advocating for job security, improved workplace safety, and better access to medical services.

The workers assembled near the refinery's main entrance, chanting slogans, while security personnel were stationed to maintain order.

This protest came after multiple discussions between the workers’ association and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), which the workers claim did not adequately address their concerns.

One protester stated, “Our contract was set for five years and expired in September 2025. We have been requesting its renewal, but it has not happened yet. We have conducted nearly 10 meetings, but our issues remain unaddressed.”

Opposing what they termed the abrupt termination of long-term contract workers, the protesters demanded the renewal of their contracts and enhanced job security, especially for those who have been employed at the refinery for many years.

“Our primary demands include job security and medical facilities, and we will persist with our protest until these issues are resolved. Although there is a significant IOC medical facility here, we are often referred to government hospitals instead of receiving treatment at the IOC facility. After all our years of service, what have we received in return?” another worker expressed.

The workers indicated that they had engaged in nearly 10 discussions with the authorities regarding their demands, yet claimed that no satisfactory resolution had been achieved.

They cautioned that their agitation would escalate if their requests were not met. The protest also disrupted refinery operations, as the workers continued to push for a resolution to their concerns.