Maruti’s Manesar plant closed for second day

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Maruti Suzuki India's plant here will remain closed for the second day after the violence on Wednesday in which one senior company official was killed, the company said on Friday.

"The plant will remain closed on Friday," a company spokesperson said.

Leaders of Maruti Suzuki Workers Union (MSWU) could not be contacted for their comments on future course of action.

A worker source, however, said many of them are staying away from their respective places fearing that they could be arrested.

"It is difficult to say now what we will do. We are also unable to contact our union leaders," the worker said.

The company had stated on Thursday that it was "still assessing the total damage to property and facilities from the acts of arson. What is clear is that the office facilities have been burnt beyond repair, as have the main gate, security office and the fire safety section."

"We will shortly announce our decision on the next steps with regard to resuming operations in these facilities," the company had said.

Haryana Police had secured the plant and about 1,300 policemen have been deployed.

On Thursday 91 employees, who were arrested, were produced before a local magistrate who remanded them to 14 days judicial custody.

They have been accused of various charges, including rioting with weapons, murder, attempt to murder, unlawful assembly, assault and trespass.

Awanish Kumar Dev, HR GM, was burnt beyond recognition while 100 others were injured during the violence. Kumar's body was identified on Thursday by his family and the company alleged that the violence was an orchestrated act of mob, which has implications beyond one company or region.