source: IT NE
The land of the historic match factory in Dhubri, Assam, which has remained inactive since 1997, has been sold by ITC Limited to another company for Rs 74.25 crore, triggering protests among the local community who are determined to preserve the heritage and revive the industry. The match factory was established in 1925 by a Swedish company and later acquired by ITC in 2001, used to be a significant source of employment and a source of pride for the region. It produced well-known brands such as LOTA and BULLOCK CART and was the first industry in Assam to commemorate Labour Day in 1935. At its peak, it employed over 3,000 workers. However, in 1997, the factory had to cease operations due to a Supreme Court ban on cutting down trees in forest areas. Since then, the factory has been left abandoned and neglected. Local residents had hoped that ITC would develop the area and establish a new industry, but even after 20 years of acquiring the land, ITC has not taken any action. Protesters are demanding intervention from the state and central governments to revive the historic match factory or establish a new industry on the premises. They have been submitting memorandums to various ministers, leaders, and officials from different departments for a long time, urging them to save the land and the factory.
The protesters have expressed their willingness to go to great lengths, even shedding blood if necessary, to protect the land and the factory from being sold off. They emphasize that the factory not only provided livelihoods but also symbolizes their culture and history. They are resolute in their stance to prevent anyone from destroying their heritage and compromising their dignity.
Course Purchase Query 