On 9 April 2025, a significant health emergency unfolded at Anabh Gems, a diamond-cutting and polishing unit located in Surat’s Kapodra industrial area. A total of 118 workers were hospitalized after consuming water from a cooler suspected to be contaminated with a toxic substance. This incident has raised urgent concerns about workplace safety protocols and mental health support within Gujarat’s vital diamond industry, which contributes substantially to the state’s economy.
Examine the Incident Details
The affected workers experienced symptoms including dizziness, breathlessness, and nausea shortly after drinking water from a cooler installed in the factory premises. Immediate medical attention was provided, and all 118 workers were admitted to nearby hospitals, primarily Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research (SMIMER) and private facilities in Surat city. As per hospital records, most patients stabilized quickly, with only a handful requiring extended observation.
Subsequent investigation by the Surat Police and forensic experts revealed the presence of a pouch containing Celphos, a highly toxic pesticide with aluminium phosphide as the active ingredient, inside the water cooler. Fortunately, the pesticide sachet was found intact, which likely prevented a fatal outcome. Police have registered a case of attempted murder under sections 307 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code.
Understand the Investigation and Arrests
Authorities reviewed CCTV footage within the factory and collected forensic samples from the water cooler and surrounding areas. The investigation led to the arrest of the assistant manager of Anabh Gems, who confessed to placing the Celphos pouch in the water cooler during a suicide attempt. According to his statement to the police, he panicked when coworkers approached and discarded the pouch in the cooler to conceal his actions, inadvertently causing widespread illness among employees.
Recognize the Impact on Workers and Industry
Surat district, often called the ‘Diamond City of India,’ hosts thousands of diamond processing units employing over 200,000 workers, according to the Surat Diamond Association. The incident at Anabh Gems has shaken the confidence of the local workforce and stakeholders. Many workers have expressed anxiety about workplace safety and the mental well-being of their colleagues.
The Gujarat Government’s Labour and Employment Department has emphasized that mental health support and workplace safety protocols must be strengthened across all factories, especially in high-pressure sectors like diamond manufacturing. This call is aligned with recent government initiatives offering financial relief and support schemes for diamond industry workers to improve their welfare.
Analyze Government Responses and Policy Measures
Following the incident, the Gujarat Factory Inspectorate issued a directive mandating all diamond processing units in Surat and surrounding districts, including Navsari and Valsad, to conduct immediate safety audits and review emergency response protocols. The directive, issued on 11 April 2025, requires factories to install surveillance systems near water sources and provide access to mental health counseling services.
The Government of Gujarat has also announced plans to revise the Factory Act provisions applicable to the diamond sector, aimed at enhancing worker safety and well-being. These revisions will complement recently implemented changes to the Factory Act that allow extended work hours up to 12 hours, balancing productivity with employee health safeguards, as detailed in the official gazette notification dated 1 March 2025.
Evaluate Industry Stakeholders’ Views
Industry bodies like the Surat Diamond Association and Gujarat Chamber of Commerce have condemned the incident and expressed their commitment to improving workplace safety. However, some stakeholders caution that mental health awareness remains limited in the sector, and employers need practical guidance and government support to implement effective interventions.
Trade unions representing diamond workers have demanded stricter enforcement of safety regulations and psychological counseling services onsite. They also called for regular health screenings and safety drills to prevent similar incidents. Several industry leaders have acknowledged these demands and pledged collaboration with government agencies.
Highlight Practical Measures for Employers and Workers
Employers in Surat and across Gujarat’s diamond hubs should take the following actions urgently:
- Conduct comprehensive safety audits focusing on water sources, storage areas, and employee common spaces.
- Implement mandatory mental health awareness programs and establish confidential counseling services.
- Install CCTV cameras near water dispensers and other critical points to deter sabotage.
- Train employees in emergency response procedures and ensure quick access to medical care.
Workers should immediately report any suspicious items or incidents to supervisors and participate actively in safety and health programs provided by their employers.
Connect This Incident to Gujarat’s Economic Context
The diamond industry is a cornerstone of Gujarat’s economy, with Surat and Ahmedabad ranking among the top cities contributing to India’s export performance. Any disruption in worker safety impacts production and export quality, underscoring the necessity of robust safety regulations.
Recent challenges, including international tariff changes and workforce demands, as reported in Surat Diamond Industry: Challenges After US Tariff Hike, further emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy and secure work environment to sustain the industry’s global competitiveness.
Next Steps for Workers and Employers:
- Workers should seek medical evaluation if experiencing unusual symptoms and report concerns promptly.
- Employers must comply with Gujarat Factory Inspectorate directives and enhance workplace safety and mental health resources.
- Both parties should engage in dialogue with local authorities and industry bodies to foster a safer work culture.