In a textbook example of proactive governance, a flash strike by 387 contractual security guards at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar was peacefully resolved within just two hours on June 12, thanks to the prompt intervention of the Central Labour Enforcement Machinery.
The guards, deployed through M/s MVSF Security Agency, had stopped work over the non-payment of two months’ wages. The sudden strike threatened to disrupt security at one of eastern India’s most critical healthcare facilities. However, the Office of the Deputy Chief Labour Commissioner (Central), Bhubaneswar, swung into action immediately upon receiving information.
Through rapid conciliation between the hospital management and the contractor, the standoff ended swiftly. By the end of the day, approximately ₹1.8 crore in outstanding wages was fully disbursed to the workers’ bank accounts, bringing the situation to a satisfactory close and restoring normal operations.
What Caused the Delay?
An official enquiry revealed that the payment issue stemmed from an administrative transition. M/s MVSF took over the security contract in March 2026, with operations beginning on April 1. The large-scale handover from the previous contractor involved extensive documentation and verification processes required for electronic fund transfers. This resulted in unavoidable delays in crediting salaries.
Importantly, the enquiry confirmed that all guards previously employed were retained and absorbed by the new agency, ensuring no loss of livelihood.
The Central Labour Enforcement team has now directed the contractor to fast-track all remaining formalities and strictly comply with labour laws to prevent future lapses.
The resolution not only protected workers’ rights but also safeguarded essential services at a premier medical institution that serves thousands of patients daily.
