Sanitation workers showcase talent, demand equality on International Women’s Day

Hundreds of women sanitation workers gathered at Tau Devi Lal Stadium on Saturday to celebrate International Women’s Day, showcasing their talents and voicing their demands for better work facilities and equal opportunities.

The event, organised by the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram on the eve of Women’s Day, was themed ‘Aparajita – Humse Hai Gurugram’. Women sanitation workers presented various cultural performances, highlighting their contributions to society while emphasising the need for improved working conditions. The stadium resonated with powerful slogans such as “Nari Shakti Zindabad” and “Safai Yoddha Zindabad,” reflecting their spirit and determination.

Through their performances, the sanitation workers expressed how they play a vital role in the city’s progress beyond their daily cleaning duties. The audience was captivated by their artistic and cultural expressions, witnessing a side of these workers rarely seen before.

To prepare for the event, sanitation experts Priyanka Yadav and Sunita Dhattarwal from Magic Bus India Foundation, Rohtak, along with international Kathak artist Shobhana Jha, selected and trained 100 sanitation workers. A 10-day rehearsal was conducted at the community centre in Sector 15, Part 1, to hone their skills for the cultural programme.

MCG Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg emphasised that the event was a tribute to the hard work and resilience of women sanitation workers. “The MC is continuously working for women empowerment so that 3women can play their role in society more effectively,” he stated. He acknowledged their dual responsibilities at work and home, stressing that “along with making Gurugram clean, these women also fulfil their family responsibilities. In such a situation, it is our moral duty to honour and appreciate their role in building a better society.” He further added, “Women today are standing shoulder to shoulder with men in every field, contributing to the progress of the country and society.”

The event was sponsored by multiple organisations, including The Progressive Federation of Trade and Industry (PFTI), Nagaro Software Private Limited, RSPL Welfare Foundation, Builders’ Association of Gurugram, and Dream Fox Lounge.

Notably, all MCG officials and sanitation workers sat together on the ground to partake in a communal ‘big langar’ meal. As a mark of appreciation, all women workers were also presented with gifts to honour their contributions.