India, Oct. 15 -- Migrant embroidery workers in Surat, Gujarat, are demanding eight-hour shifts and weekly holidays under the 'Gaon Chalo' campaign, threatening to return to their villages if their demands are not met.

The movement began in August 2026, with strikes and protests followed by negotiations between workers, factory owners and the Labour Department.

Industry association TEJAS has reportedly offered Rs 14,300 per month for eight-hour shifts and Rs 35,000 for 12-hour shifts, intensifying disagreements over wages and working conditions.

Workers' representatives allege that 300-400 employees were dismissed during the protests, while labour leader Ajay Dubey was arrested in a case police say is unrelated to the agitation.

Union...