Union govt ignoring interests of safai karamcharis: Panel

Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, December 5

The Safai Karamchari Commission has accused the Central Government of ignoring interests of safai karamcharis and raised questions over usage of funds under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Gejja Ram Valmiki, chairman, Safai Karamchari Commission, alleged that the funds under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan were not being used in a right manner.

He sought information related to the funds spent on advertisement, and functions under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

“Leaders often get their pictures clicked with brooms to mark the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Safai karamcharis who conduct cleanliness drives are totally ignored,” he said.

He said contractual employees were not being regularised and exploited by a contractor. He said all the pending issues of safai workers would be addressed on priority basis.

Valmiki said the sole aim of their commission was to work for the welfare of the safai karamcharis.

He said safai karamcharis raised several issues, including delay in salary, compensation for safai karamcharis/sewermen and vacant posts in various departments, among others. He urged the workers to perform their duty with utmost devotion.

He said the commission would not allow any government official to harass safai karamcharis unnecessarily. Valmiki said officials concerned did not come for the meeting.