CITU state president Ch. Narasinga Rao demanded the revocation of the August 10 circular that bars workers from speaking to the media at Vizag Steel Plant. The union also pressed for reinstating dismissed contract workers and a compensation of ₹1 crore for each family affected by the June 8 accident.

Key Takeaways

  • August 10 circular restricts workers from communicating with media
  • CITU demands withdrawal of the circular and reinstatement of contract staff
  • Compensation of ₹1 crore sought for each family of June 8 accident victims

Historical Background

Over the past two years, Vizag Steel Plant has been plagued by wage arrears, increased workloads, and a series of workplace accidents, heightening tensions between labor and management. Similar media‑restriction circulars were issued in August 2025, prompting earlier protests by CITU.

The management claims the company holds reserves of ₹900 crore to settle pending salaries, while workers assert that these dues remain unpaid.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that restricting workers’ communication with media not only undermines transparency but also fuels industrial unrest, potentially affecting steel production across India.

"Limiting media access infringes on fundamental labor rights and erodes trust within the industry," says labor law expert Dr. Ajay Singh.
Did You Know?: Vizag Steel is one of India’s largest steel facilities and experienced a similar blast in 2012 that claimed five lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What does the circular prohibit?

Answer: It bans employees from sharing or forwarding any plant‑related information to media outlets.

Question 2: What compensation is CITU demanding?

Answer: The union seeks a payment of ₹1 crore for the family of each worker killed in the June 8 incident.