Mourning for Satnam Singh: Combatting Gangmastering and Illegal Labor Practices in Agriculture

On June 22nd at 5pm, a CGIL demonstration was held in Latina to honor the memory of Satnam Singh, a laborer from the Agro Pontino who tragically lost his life due to injuries sustained in a workplace accident. The confederation also initiated a fundraiser to support Singh’s grieving family. Additionally, next Tuesday, an event organized by the Latina Indian community will take place in remembrance of Singh, with support from Fai-Cisl and Uila-Uil.

Satnam Singh’s untimely death has brought attention to the deep-rooted issue of gangmastering in Italy, particularly in rural areas like Lazio. In response to the upcoming demonstration, the unions have declared a strike for the entire day of June 25th. This strike aims to shed light on the irregularities and exploitation prevalent in the agricultural sector. Data from the National Labor Inspectorate in Lazio has revealed that gangmastering is still prevalent among workers with many cases reported.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Satnam Singh’s passing highlight the need for increased enforcement mechanisms and collaboration between unions, employers’ associations, and government representatives to combat gangmastering and illegal labor practices within the agricultural sector. Efforts are being made by government officials such as Minister of Labor Marina Calderone and head of Agriculture Francesco Lollobrigida to address these risks posed by such exploitative practices within their respective fields. Leaders and officials including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and CGIL leader Maurizio Landini have strongly condemned these inhumane conditions that led to Singh’s death.