From the archive record
Thousands of garment workers in Bengaluru clashed with the police and set buses and cars on fire today, angry with the government over a controversial new rule for provident funds, which has now been withdrawn. Workers threw stones at a police station and burnt several police vehicles as the protests - not led by any union - spiraled out of control. At least three public buses were set on fire, said the police. The protesters also blocked traffic on the highway, causing five-hour jams in the IT city. Policemen fired in the air and used tear gas and batons to control mobs. Bengaluru police commissioner NS Megharikh told NDTV that the protests were brought under control by afternoon and reports that a police officer had opened a fire when surrounded by a mob were being investigated. Images o