NEW DELHI — The National Committee of the Indian Federation of Trade Unions (IFTU) has issued a strong statement in support of Advocate Balan, a National Committee member and long-time crusader for workers’ rights, who is currently facing media attacks in connection with the Dharmasthala mass murder investigation.
IFTU condemned what it described as an orchestrated vilification campaign by “rightist forces” using biased media channels to target Balan, who is representing victims in the ongoing case. The organisation emphasised that Comrade Balan has a long history of defending contractual and outsourced workers and is known for taking up human rights and anti-UAPA cases.
The union expressed concern that powerful interests are attempting to derail the investigation into several cases of missing women and girls in the Dharmasthala region. IFTU claimed that the smear campaign aims to silence those seeking justice and transparency.
“The proximity to power, money, and communal agendas should not obstruct the pursuit of truth,” the statement said, urging the Karnataka High Court and democratic institutions to ensure the investigation proceeds without interference.
IFTU called upon all trade union bodies and democratic organizations to stand in solidarity with Advocate Balan and demand a full, fair probe into the matter.
