Prosecutors launch case over Indian workers’ pay protest in Armenia

Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office has launched a criminal case following a strike by Indian migrant workers in the northern town of Ijevan, the supervisory authority told Armenian media.

The case has been opened under multiple articles of the Criminal Code, including threats with a weapon, physical violence, and violations of safety regulations during construction and other work.

Footage shared earlier on social media showed striking Indian workers blocking a road in Ijevan as part of their protest.

Initial reports suggested the workers were demonstrating over unpaid wages. However, authorities later clarified that all 205 striking employees are officially employed, hold valid three-year contracts, and have no outstanding salary arrears.

According to Mger Mirzoyan, director of the “Ije Grand Textile” factory where the workers are employed, they are demanding higher pay.

Later in the day, India’s Ambassador to Armenia travelled to Ijevan to meet with the workers.

By Tamilla Hasanova