Karnataka Safai Karmachari Commission Chairman Engages with Civic Workers in Mysuru
In a significant outreach effort, Karnataka State Commission for Safai Karmachari chairman P Raghu conducted an interactive meeting with pourakarmikas in Mysuru on Thursday. The session, organized jointly by the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Mysuru City Corporation, and the social welfare department, aimed to understand and address the pressing issues faced by civic workers.
Direct Dialogue and Grievance Redressal
Chairman Raghu emphasized the importance of open communication, urging workers to express their grievances freely and without fear. He highlighted that such visits to civic workers at their workplaces are crucial for comprehending their challenges firsthand and working towards sustainable solutions.
During the interaction, workers raised a range of concerns, including delayed wages, lack of benefits for families of deceased employees, inadequate housing, insufficient healthcare facilities, and the demand for equal pay for equal work. Senior officials from various departments, including social welfare, were present to note these issues and facilitate immediate action.
Focus on Education and Social Upliftment
Raghu strongly advocated for education as a pathway to social upliftment. He advised civic workers to ensure quality education for their children by enrolling them in prestigious residential schools such as Morarji Desai, Indira Gandhi, and Navodaya institutions. This initiative aims to break the cycle of poverty and provide better opportunities for the next generation.
Mechanization and Basic Rights
Addressing the future of sanitation work, Raghu announced that manual sanitation tasks will gradually be replaced by mechanization. This shift is expected to improve working conditions and reduce health risks associated with manual labor.
He also addressed specific complaints, clarifying that hotels are legally obligated to allow pourakarmikas to use their toilets, and denying this basic facility is illegal. Additionally, he took serious note of the poor quality of food being served to workers and assured that the matter would be brought to the notice of the Deputy Commissioner for a permanent solution.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Raghu pointed out that free medical check-ups are currently limited to only a few designated hospitals. He called upon the authorities to expand this provision, ensuring that free treatment is available at all hospitals across Mysuru district. This move is intended to enhance accessibility to healthcare for civic workers and their families.
Recognition and Assurance
Praising the tireless contributions of civic workers, Raghu stated that they are the first to wake up each day to keep neighborhoods clean and tidy. He assured them that their issues would be addressed sincerely and that the commission is committed to improving their working and living conditions.
The meeting underscored the commission's dedication to fostering a supportive environment for safai karmacharis, with ongoing efforts to implement practical solutions and policy changes.
