ONGC counters allegations: Emphasizes Local Hiring and Community Investment in Assam

Guwahati: ONGC has reacted to recent reports from local media which have highlighted a sit-in by members of the ONGC Purbanchal Employees’ Association (OPEA) at the Assam Asset in Nazira.

“The demonstration, while peaceful, has been primarily initiated as a protest against discontinuation of a particular overtime payment, which was not admissible. The Company is losing money while continuing its operations at Assam for the last few years; one of the reasons being low production and high manpower,” states ONGC in a press note.

The claim of Union with respect to medical facilities being stopped is factually incorrect. The change from direct credit to reimbursement mode has been introduced to curb misuse and malpractice related to a unique welfare facility, the Company provides to its in-service as well as to its former employees, it adds.

“Despite financial pressures linked to rising production costs in the Assam Asset, ONGC continues to maintain a significant presence in the region. The company has reiterated its commitment to Assam through a wide range of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These include sustained investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and skill development. The Siu-Ka-Pha Hospital at Sivasagar is one such flagship project providing healthcare to the locals,” the press note read.

“Industry observers note that while the current changes may cause short-term friction, they are aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability for ONGC’s operations in Assam. The situation remains stable, with dialogue channels open between management and employee representatives,” it adds further.