Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/May 14
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing strike by sanitation workers employed in various municipal councils and corporations across Punjab, Sanjeev Arora, president of Bharat Vikas Parishad and a prominent social worker, has appealed to the Punjab government to immediately accept the long-pending demands of these workers. In a press release, he urged the government to resolve the strike swiftly to restore deteriorating urban cleanliness and provide relief to the public.
Sanjeev Arora stated that sanitation workers form the backbone of any city. They play a vital role in keeping cities clean, beautiful, and free from diseases. Working from dawn till late evening in harsh conditions and across all weather, these employees deserve the respect and facilities they are entitled to. He emphasized that with workers now resorting to a strike for their demands, the government must take their issues seriously, adopt a humane approach, and initiate talks for an immediate resolution.
Due to the strike, garbage piles are accumulating across cities, polluting the environment. Filth is spreading in markets, lanes, and residential areas, and without control, residents could face severe hardships. In the summer heat, this could heighten risks of dengue, malaria, food poisoning, and other infectious diseases. Arora insisted the government prioritize this matter.
He further noted that a large number of corporation employees have served temporarily for over 10 years without regularization—a deeply unfortunate situation. Despite their long, continuous service, they remain denied permanent jobs. The government should regularize them immediately to secure their future and provide mental peace. Currently, these workers receive salaries of just Rs 10,000 to 12,000, insufficient amid rising inflation to support families. Covering children's education, rent, utility bills, medicines, and essentials has become extremely difficult, so the government must seriously consider wage hikes.
Arora highlighted that dearness allowance (DA) has been pending for a long time and must be released promptly, along with arrears from the pay commission, to offer financial relief. Workers deserve their rights on time, as this defines a strong, responsible administration.
Arora appealed to the Punjab government to hold an urgent meeting with worker representatives, reach a positive resolution, and end the standoff. Satisfied employees will work with greater dedication, directly benefiting the public. He also urged citizens to understand the workers' plight, offer moral support, and stand united with those who toil day and night to keep cities clean. Mutual understanding and cooperation between workers and the government is key to a permanent solution.
In conclusion, Arora asserted that a civilized society's hallmark is its sanitation system and respect for its toiling workers. The government must accept the sanitation workers' demands swiftly, end the strike, restore urban cleanliness, and relieve the public.
Comments
Post a Comment