Massive Protest by Tea Workers in Assam Over Wage Cuts

On Labour Day, thousands of tea workers from Dofolating Tea Estate in Assam protested against alleged wage cuts, raising serious concerns about their treatment. Led by the All Adivasi Students’ Association, the workers accused management of unfair practices, demanding immediate action and accountability. The protest highlighted ongoing issues of exploitation within the tea industry, with workers calling for justice and better working conditions. As tensions rise, the future of these laborers hangs in the balance, prompting urgent calls for intervention from authorities.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 15:13 IST

Protest Erupts in Jorhat Over Wage Issues

Tea workers gathered to protest in Jorhat

Jorhat, May 2: On Saturday, the streets of Titabar witnessed a significant outpouring of anger as thousands of tea garden workers from Dofolating Tea Estate protested against alleged wage reductions on Labour Day, raising alarms about the ongoing exploitation of tea laborers in Assam.

The demonstration, organized by the All Adivasi Students’ Association (AASA), Titabar Regional Committee, featured workers marching en masse, playing drums, and chanting slogans while surrounding the tea garden office.

Central to the protest is the claim that the garden management deducted wages for International Labour Day on May 1, despite workers either being present for work or entitled to paid leave.

Workers assert that these actions are not isolated but indicative of a persistent pattern of exploitation and neglect.

“We have not received our rightful wages. If this continues, how are we supposed to run our families or educate our children? The current management has ruined the garden. If the manager is removed, we believe we can work in peace,” expressed one distressed tea worker.

Protesters have specifically called out the garden manager, Surendra Tiwari, accusing him of enforcing policies they deem oppressive and detrimental to workers. Their primary demands include his immediate removal and a prohibition on his access to the tea estate.

“We demand that wages for May 1 be paid in full and without delay,” stated a representative from the All Assam Adivasi Students’ Union.

“The management must ensure that both permanent and temporary workers receive all due facilities. There must also be accountability, and those responsible for exploitation cannot continue in their positions,” the representative added.

The AASA has submitted a memorandum to the Chief Director of Dofolating Tea Estate, detailing their demands, with copies sent to the Titabar Labour Inspector, urging prompt action.

“Thousands of workers have taken to the streets today because their wages were unfairly deducted on Labour Day. This is unacceptable. There are also allegations that workers have been forced to work for as little as Rs 125 in the past, which is far below acceptable standards,” the AASA member remarked.

“It has come to our notice that several entitlements due to tea workers are not being provided. This cannot continue. The authorities must act immediately to restore justice and dignity for these workers,” he concluded.