Atishi writes to L-G again for reinstatement of bus marshals

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has written to Lieutenant Governor (L-G) VK Saxena urging him to immediately approve a proposal for the reinstatement of over 10,000 bus marshals in the city. The proposal, which was submitted to the L-G’s office on November 13 has remained pending for 17 days, raising concerns over its delay.

Frustrated by the delay in the L-G’s response, she stated, “More than two weeks have passed, and yet no decision has been made. I fail to understand the reason for this delay.”

The Chief Minister criticised certain officers acting under central government directives for terminating the bus marshals’ employment on October 31, 2023, following months of withheld salaries. “These officers conspired to first stop their payments and then terminated their employment. Instead of being held accountable, they were rewarded with promotions,” she alleged.

In her letter on Sunday, Atishi emphasised the termination has had devastating consequences. “Stripping these marshals of their jobs has weakened the safety net that empowered millions of women to travel fearlessly every day. Moreover, over 10,000 families have been deprived of their livelihoods,” she said.

The Chief Minister concluded her letter with a heartfelt appeal, saying, “I request you to approve this proposal at the earliest so that light can return to the lives of these 10,000 families and women can feel safe again in buses.” She noted that the Delhi Government, the marshals’ families, and the women of Delhi were all awaiting the L-G’s approval.

CM Atishi highlighted the critical role bus marshals had played in ensuring women’s safety on public transport. “Our mothers, sisters, and daughters felt unsafe in buses before marshals were deployed. Harassment and predatory behaviour were daily realities for women commuters,” she wrote.