Samastipur: As political parties in Bihar campaign on promises of jobs and economic revival, one of the state’s oldest industrial landmarks, the Rameshwar Jute Mill in Samastipur’s Kalyanpur constituency, has been shut indefinitely. The closure, effective from November 1, has left hundreds of workers jobless and anxious about their future.
The mill, once considered the “pride of Bihar”, had long been a source of livelihood for thousands. Workers say that at its peak, the factory employed nearly 8,000 labourers and produced over 80 tonnes of jute daily. However, years of management-worker conflict and low wages gradually eroded operations, turning the mill into a symbol of Bihar’s industrial decline.
“We demanded government-mandated wages, but instead of negotiating, the management shut the gates and disappeared,” one worker said, standing outside the locked factory.
Dispute Over Wages Sparks Closure
According to local workers, disputes over inadequate pay and poor working conditions triggered the shutdown. They allege that despite repeated appeals, neither the state government nor local representatives intervened to save the mill. “No leader or official has come forward to help. We have families to feed, and now we have no income,” said another worker.
The management, meanwhile, has not issued any official statement since the closure notice. Mill offices remain locked, and no representatives have been seen at the site since the announcement.
A Legacy in Decline
The Rameshwar Jute Mill, located within the Kalyanpur assembly segment, has historically been central to the region’s economy. In previous elections, local politicians mediated between the management and workers to prevent closures. This time, however, no such efforts materialised.
The shutdown adds to Bihar’s worsening industrial unemployment. With most factories across Samastipur district already closed, only a handful — such as the Hassanpur sugar mill — remain partially operational.
Political Context
Ironically, the closure comes as parties across Bihar — including the ruling JDU, RJD, and Congress — campaign heavily on promises of industrialisation and job creation. The Kalyanpur constituency is represented by JDU minister Maheshwar Hazari, who now faces criticism from local residents for inaction.
“The leaders talk of development during elections, but the factories that once gave Bihar its identity are dying,” said a trade union representative.
