Bhubaneswar – In a state where over 90% of labour violations reportedly go unreported, one man’s battle for justice is beginning to expose deep cracks in Odisha’s labour enforcement system. Siddharth Roshan, a former employee of a Bhubaneswar-based media house, has emerged as the whistleblower behind #OperationShramik—a campaign aimed at spotlighting systemic inaction, statutory violations, and bureaucratic neglect across the state’s labour administration.
Inspired by the Indian government’s Operation Sindoor in the aftermath of the Pahalgam tragedy, Roshan coined the term Operation Shramik out of sheer frustration after months of silence from the authorities.
Proud that the Indian Govt launched #OperationSindoor to stand up for its citizens. Equally hoping the #Odisha Govt will launch #OperationShramik — to uphold the rights of workers denied basics like #EPF, #Gratuity & #LeaveEncashment. @MohanMOdisha @CMO_Odisha @LESIOdisha pic.twitter.com/kLEb9ICxqS
— Siddharth Roshan (@siddhart_roshan) May 7, 2025
In November 2024, he filed a formal complaint with the Labour Department of Odisha, submitting documentary evidence of labour law violations. Despite follow-ups through RTIs and public posts, no tangible action has been taken. While the Labour Commissioner twice directed the Khordha District Labour Officer to inspect the matter, there has been no response—five months later.
This prolonged inaction raises urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and the very purpose of labour enforcement in Odisha. While the government launches new welfare schemes for workers, Roshan argues that these initiatives do little to address a more fundamental issue: the failure to enforce existing legal rights.
Thousands of workers in Odisha—especially in the unorganised and media sectors—still struggle to receive PF, bonuses, gratuity, or even leave encashment. Their basic legal entitlements are either delayed or denied. For Roshan, this isn’t just policy failure—it’s personal.
From unpaid dues to EPFO violations, my fight for justice reveals a shocking pattern of govt inaction. If authorities ignore documented cases, what about countless others?#LabourRights #Odisha @CMO_Odisha @SecyChief @LESIOdisha @LabourOdisha @socialepfohttps://t.co/UvvICfecHF
— Siddharth Roshan (@siddhart_roshan) March 30, 2025
Through #OperationShramik, Roshan is pushing not just for his own case, but for a wider movement. He continues to document his efforts via his blog and social media and has even taken steps to initiate vigilance and police complaints against non-responsive officials.
Follow #OperationShramik for ongoing updates.
