Guwahati: A vast majority of sanitation workers (Safai Karmacharis) employed in government offices across Assam have been denied their rightful benefits, including appointment letters, provident fund (PF), and Employees’ State Insurance (ESI). Reports indicate that nearly 80% of the two lakh Safai Karmacharis in the state are yet to receive these entitlements, leaving them in financial and job insecurity.
Bhim Basfor, a member of the Assam State Commission for Safai Karmacharies, highlighted these concerns following his four-day visit to Kokrajhar district. He inspected various government offices and institutions to assess the working conditions of sanitation workers and found a severe lack of proper documentation, financial security, and basic amenities such as housing, clean drinking water, and electricity.
Basfor also noted that the number of sanitation workers in government hospitals and offices is insufficient compared to the actual requirement, further exacerbating their struggles. He assured that these issues would be seriously discussed within the commission and a formal report would be submitted to the state government to push for necessary reforms.
During his visit, he inspected key locations, including the Kokrajhar, Gossaigaon, and Fakiragram municipal boards, Kokrajhar RNB Civil Hospital, Gossaigaon Civil Hospital, Kokrajhar Medical College and Hospital, NTPC, and CIT. His assessment aimed at identifying the critical challenges faced by sanitation workers and ensuring appropriate actions are taken.
The Assam State Commission for Safai Karmacharies, established by the Assam government, has been actively working to improve the conditions of Safai Karmacharis and ensure they receive their rightful entitlements. The commission remains committed to advocating for their rights and improving their working conditions across the state.
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