Sanitation workers not provided with basic working tools in Kohima

NCSK’s head Venkatesan assures to take up matter with Nagaland CM or CS

Morung Express news 
Kohima | October 12

Street sweepers or outdoor sanitation workers seemed to be facing a common issue of not being provided the most basic tools like brooms, dustpan, and spades from the concerned authority in Kohima.  

These tools are required for dispensing daily duties and they usually have to bear it from their own pockets. 

The issue was among the grievances and problems highlighted by sanitation workers in Kohima to the Chairman of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (Sanitation Workers), M Venkatesan on October 12. 

Currently on a two-day tour to Nagaland, a reception and interaction programme was held at the KMC premises on October 12.

When asked if they have approached the Municipal Corporation in the past in this regard, it has likely been of no avail. 

"Sometimes we are provided gloves," a woman informed, addressing the Venkatesan,  adding that it is more necessary to provide basic tools as they wore out easily due to frequent use. 

Tools are most needed as meeting these expenses becomes extra burden when salaries are piecemeal especially for workers on fixed pay. 

It was also learnt from the workers that uniforms are not being provided and challenges regarding collection of garbage and dumping were also evident at the meeting.  

The gaps in income remains an issue for those workers on fixed pay as their allowance received is less, and lack of equipment becomes an extra burden. 

Venkatesan, during his address, urged the workers to voice their grievances without hesitation and consider it as a time when key stakeholders and officials are present may take their matter into account. 

He assured them  that he would take up the issues with priority and find solutions for the same.

"We will take the matter up with the Chief Secretary or Chief Minister to address it at the state level. If the matter is not solved, we will take it to the Government of India," he said. 

More than 40 Safai Karamcharis attached to Kohima Municipal Corporation (KMC) were present at the programme. 

Earlier, Thejawelie Gregory, Deputy Commissioner, Kohima welcomed the gathering and Administrator, Kohima Municipal Corporation, T Lanusenla Longkumer charted the programme.