MCD forms cross-party panel to resolve workers’ strike

The committee, comprising members from all four political parties, the BJP, AAP, Congress, and Indraprastha Vikas Party (IVP), has been tasked with presenting a resolution within 24 hours after formulation.

The session, which was scheduled to begin at 11 am, started at 11:50 am and witnessed disruption from Aam Aadmi Party councillors. The opposition entered the hall at around 12:02 pm carrying placards reading “Vetan chor, kursi chhod” (Salary thief, step down from the chair) and “Delhi ki janta dengue, malaria se taras rahi hai, Bhajpa satta ke nashe mein mast hai,” (Delhi’s people are suffering from dengue and malaria, while the BJP is intoxicated with power) while chanting slogans like “Bhajpa ki chaar-engine sarkar fail hai” (The BJP’s four-engine government has failed). Some councillors also tore up the agenda papers and stood on tables in protest.

The Mayor repeatedly appealed the opposition to calm down, reminding them that the House had already discussed and proposed the formation of a committee to resolve the workers’ grievances. Despite his assurances, chaos continued, prompting an adjournment at 12:08 pm for 10 minutes. When the House reconvened at 12:30 pm, disruption resumed briefly before proceedings formally began at 12:33 pm.

Announcing the decision, Mayor Singh said the committee would ensure a prompt resolution of the issues faced by MTS and DBC employees, who have been protesting outside Gate No. 5 of the Civic Centre for over two weeks. “The concerns of these workers are being treated with utmost seriousness. A resolution is expected within 24 hours,” the Mayor stated.

Alongside addressing the labour issue, the Mayor also unveiled several civic initiatives ahead of the festive season. The MCD has allocated Rs 12.5 crore for a special sanitation and repair drive, and each ward will receive 50 new LED streetlights to enhance safety and illumination before Diwali.

“Keeping the festive season in mind, we have directed officials to intensify cleanliness and maintenance drives across the city. Our goal is to ensure Delhi remains clean, bright, and welcoming for all citizens,” said Mayor Singh.

Leader of the House Pravesh Wahi also emphasised that while some councillors from the AAP initially disrupted proceedings, members from all parties eventually came together in the spirit of cooperation. “This committee reflects our collective responsibility toward Delhi’s sanitation workers and citizens alike,” Wahi added.

The meeting also covered key civic issues, including sanitation management, infrastructure maintenance, and public health measures. The Mayor reiterated the MCD’s commitment to providing reliable civic services and ensuring that no section of the workforce is neglected.