Durgapur, February 18, 2025 – The steel workers' movement in India has lost one of its stalwarts, Comrade Kali Sanyal, who passed away yesterday in Durgapur following a severe ailment. His untimely demise has left his comrades and fellow travelers in profound grief and distress.
Comrade Sanyal was a dedicated worker of the Durgapur Steel Plant and an ardent frontline activist of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) from the very beginning of his working life. His commitment and leadership were instrumental in shaping and strengthening the steel workers’ movement over the years. Even after his superannuation, he continued to actively fulfill his responsibilities, tirelessly advocating for workers' rights until his last breath.
His contributions to the steel workers' movement and CITU were both invaluable and irreplaceable. Known for his principled leadership, Comrade Sanyal was deeply respected and loved by his comrades and the broader fraternity of the workers' movement. His endearing personality and steadfast dedication made him a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless workers.
At his sudden and premature demise, the void left behind is immeasurable. "It is a big loss to the movement and also a deeply personal loss," expressed a close comrade, his voice heavy with emotion. "I am deeply shocked and find it profoundly unfortunate that I must write his obituary despite being much older than him. I have no words to console his bereaved wife and daughter, whom I last met in December at their home in Durgapur, along with Comrade Kali."
The grief felt across the movement is palpable. Comrade Sanyal’s life and work will forever remain a guiding light for those who continue the struggle for workers' rights.
