Sanitation workers’ plight sparks legal action demand against commissioner

Kalyanadurgam – Andhra Pradesh: The SC/ST JAC Taluka Committee of Kalyanadurgam submitted a memorandum to the District Collector, Dr. Vinod Kumar, demanding legal action against the Municipal Commissioner for alleged negligence, worker exploitation, and corruption. The petition, presented at Praja Vedika on Monday, highlighted the plight of sanitation workers and urged immediate intervention.

Sanitation workers face exploitation and unsafe conditions

The JAC leaders Chelimappa, Brahmanapalli Dhona Thimmappa, Channamalli Narasimhulu, and Narayana expressed dismay over the dismissal of 10 sanitation workers who had diligently served the municipality for five years.

Inhumane working conditions: Workers reportedly cleaned hazardous waste and removed silt from drainage canals without proper safety equipment, including gloves, shoes, or protective clothing.

Unfair dismissals: The JAC questioned the rationale behind dismissing workers who endured rain, dust, and foul smells to maintain municipal cleanliness.

Corruption allegations in procurement

JAC leaders alleged large-scale corruption in the procurement of materials meant for sanitation workers over the last five years.

Unaddressed complaints: Repeated petitions and protests to investigate these irregularities reportedly went ignored, exacerbating workers’ struggles.

Mental stress among employees: Lower level employees reportedly faced harassment, depression, and insecurity due to a lack of accountability in the municipality.

Discrimination and double standards alleged

The JAC accused the municipality administration of discriminatory practices, including unequal treatment of the poor.

Demolition of houses: The municipality allegedly demolished walls of poor residents’ homes, labeling them as illegal, while the powerful were left untouched.

Selective enforcement: The JAC criticized the perceived bias in municipal policies, calling for fairness and transparency.

Call for legal action and accountability

The JAC leaders demanded a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

Petition to District Collector: The leaders urged the District Collector to take legal action against the Municipal Commissioner, address corruption, and provide relief to affected workers and residents.

Immediate intervention urged: The petition stressed the need for justice and accountability to restore confidence among the community.

The JAC’s plea underscores the dire conditions faced by sanitation workers and the urgent need for systemic reforms in Kalyanadurgam Municipality.