‘I still do not believe I am alive’

A 32-year-old survivor of the violence at Maruti's Manesar plant, recounts the horror.

A 32-year-old survivor of the violence at Maruti's Manesar plant, recounts the horror:

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Before I reported to the factory on that day (July 18), a colleague had informed me that there was a scuffle between a worker and a supervisor. When I came in, all seemed to be normal.

During the course of the day there was some tension and by afternoon it was clear it was more than just a scuffle. By late afternoon, workers were in a visibly combative mood and I thought there would be a strike. Police were stationed outside so I felt safe.

Around 6.10pm, a group of iron rod and stick-wielding workers locked the door of our first-floor office. After 10 minutes, another group barged into the office and started beating us all ruthlessly. They locked the door again and went to target others.

I was hit on the hand and head. I knew I had to escape if I were to live. I hid under a conveyer assembly belt for over two hours. The workers mercilessly assaulted whoever they could lay their hands on.

I lost track of time. At some point I heard sirens and it seemed police had arrived but I was unsure if they were workers in disguise. After 10 minutes, I broke open the window and jumped to the ground floor.

There was anarchy. I remained hidden inside the plant till 8.30pm. When I got out, I spotted a new car with the keys inside and drove frantically for 2 kilometres to the gate.

At the factory gates it was another ordeal. I was bleeding and thought the police would take me to hospital. I pleaded but somebody said it was not their duty and an ambulance would come. It never arrived. Fortunately I met my senior who gave me a lift till Artemis. I still don’t believe I am alive.

(As told to Sanjeev Ahuja)