Lawn-U Tea Estate Workers End Hunger Strike Over Pending Dues

The hunger strike organized by workers and employees at Lawn-U Tea Estate under the Hill Plantation Employees Union banner was officially called off on Monday. This decision follows the resolution of issues regarding outstanding provident fund and wage payments. The management confirmed that all salary and allowance arrears amounting to Rs 47,21,010 have been transferred directly to the bank accounts of the workers.

Management Clarification on Estate Status

The management of Lawn-U Tea and Agro Limited has formally notified the Additional Labour Director of the North Bengal Labour Department regarding these payments. The company stated that the tea estate is currently operational and not closed. Workers are encouraged to return to their duties to receive their regular wages according to their employment terms. Regarding the remaining provident fund liabilities, the company is in the process of clearing approximately Rs 52 lakh and is currently negotiating an installment payment plan with the PF organization, supported by court directions.

Worker Union Perspective on PF Dues

According to the worker unions, a total of Rs 3,32,41,736 is required to settle the entire provident fund liability. Records indicate that approximately Rs 1 crore has already been paid toward the PF fund for the year 2025. Additionally, Rs 31 lakh has been contributed from the share belonging to the tea estate owner, Govind Garg. Following these payments and the resolution of the immediate wage dispute, the laborers decided to end their protest on Monday afternoon.