The Sahagunj unit has been closed since November 30. The management put up a notice on Tuesday announcing its decision to lift the suspension of work. However, protesting workers said this resumption of work was symbolic and just an election gimmick before the Lok Sabha polls. While only 229 are being called initially, the rest will have to wait, and will also not be receiving their salaries till then.

In November, Dunlop owner and industrialist Pawan Ruia had said there was no option except to stop production and cut salaries due to shortfall in working capital. But the Mancha, backed by the TMC, opposed the plan and went against the decision of established unions, who had agreed to accept Ruia's proposal. With no option left, the Dunlop management announced suspension of work and did not pay even the reduced salary to workers.

Following the closure, Dunlop had sought a Rs 100-crore bridge loan from the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation, which has been declined. Mancha supporters demanded a meeting with the management on Wednesday, calling the March 6 reopening an "eyewash". They demanded that all terms and conditions be discussed with them and all workers be benefited.