Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) faces shutdown amid protests after youth's death

BOKARO: Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) operations were severely disrupted on Friday following violent protests and a citywide shutdown triggered by the death of a displaced youth during a clash with CISF forces at the BSL Administrative Gate on Thursday. The incident occurred during a demonstration by the Visthapith Apprentice Sangh (VAS).Urgent appeal by BSL managementOn Friday morning, BSL management issued an urgent appeal to protesters, urging them to lift the blockade. They highlighted the critical nature of the plant, describing it as a thermo-sensitive facility with complex gas pipeline networks requiring constant monitoring under strict safety protocols.Protests and violence across the cityThe protests, which began on Thursday night, paralysed both public life and plant operations. Protesters blocked key roads and attempted a citywide shutdown. Violence broke out in various locations, including Dundibagh, where protesters set fire to a shop and a vehicle. In Sector 4, a bus was set on fire, and journalists were harassed and threatened near Ispat Bhawan.BSL operations affectedBSL spokesperson Manikant Dhan confirmed that approximately 5,000 workers were trapped inside the plant for over 18 hours without basic necessities. Critical production units, including the blast furnace, coke oven, sinter plant, steel melting shop, and hot strip mill, were forced to shut down, resulting in significant financial losses.Safety risks and ongoing effortsThe ongoing protests have severely compromised the plant's safety systems, particularly regarding the maintenance of gas pipelines. Despite the challenging conditions, employees continued to work to prevent potential risks to the facility and surrounding areas.Inquiry ordered by Deputy CommissionerIn response to the situation, Bokaro Deputy Commissioner Vijaya Jadhav formed a three-member inquiry committee, led by Sub-Divisional Officer Pranjal Dhanda, to investigate the death of Prem Kumar Mahato and the subsequent violent events. The committee, which also includes DSP (City) and Executive Magistrate Jaya Kumari, will review CCTV footage and media reports. The DC has also ordered the arrest of BSL's Chief General Manager (HR), Hari Mohan Jha.BSL management agrees to protesters' demandsAfter negotiations, BSL management agreed to the following demands of the VAS:Damage to infrastructure and plant shutdownProtesters also damaged a canal supplying water from Tenughat Dam to the steel plant in Tupkadih and blocked most of the plant gates, preventing employee movement.Need for improved dialogueThe incident highlights the delicate balance between industrial operations and community relations in Bokaro, emphasising the need for improved dialogue between management and displaced persons' groups to prevent future conflicts.