Textile embroidery workers in Surat, Gujarat, have warned of wider protests over demands for labour code implementation, minimum wages, paid weekly holidays and regulated working hours. The dispute between workers and employers has continued for nearly three months, raising concerns about the region's textile industry.

Workers are demanding an eight-hour shift and one paid weekly holiday, with many preferring Sunday as their day off. They also want wages for an eight-hour workday to match their earlier earnings for a 12-hour shift.

Tensions escalated on Saturday after worker representative Ajay Dubey was detained by police while leaving home for a meeting with labour leaders at Shramjivi Sevalay. The incident added to concerns among unions as they prepare their next steps.

The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) has called a joint meeting to discuss its strategy for future demonstrations. INTUC Gujarat president Naishadh Desai reiterated the demand for labour code implementation and criticised the lack of progress in resolving the dispute.

Worker representatives also expressed concern over police cases filed against around 250 workers during recent protests. Union leaders said they oppose violence, vandalism and strikes, and intend to continue peaceful demonstrations.

Meanwhile, Desai warned that other states offering better infrastructure, subsidies and tax incentives could attract textile businesses away from Surat. The dispute has also raised concerns about the region's investment climate and workforce stability.

The outcome of discussions between workers, employers and industry bodies will be important for resolving the dispute. A settlement could help protect workers' rights while maintaining stability in Surat's textile embroidery sector.