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Workers want promised cash, not gold

DUBAI — In a unique case, over 3000 construction workers belonging to Sharjah-based Classic Labourers Supply Company staged a protest against payment of wages in gold in lieu of cash the company owed them.

The labourers told Khaleej Times that the owner of the company owned Viswas Gold Shop at New Gold Centre in Dubai where they had gathered to collect the gold.

The company supplies labourers to Al Naboudah Link Contracting to work at its site in Dubai airport. An official from Al Naboudah Contracting said they pay the labourer supplying company on time since they supply large number of workers.

Lakshman, one of the protesting workers, said that they were not paid salaries for two months and when they demanded settlement of their dues, the company offered to give them gold instead.

Chohan, another worker, said they lose out in the bargain because when they sell the gold in the market, they lose Dh500. They, however, preferred to accept gold which was better than nothing.

Mohan Raj said: “We need cash since we have to pay our rent and for our food. Gold will not help us to buy food to satisfy our hunger and it will take time to sell it. Sometimes, we are forced to sell the gold for lower rates.

Sajeeb, General Manager of Viswas Gold Shop refused to comment.

• UAE