Graveyard workers stage protest, demand recognition

Vijayawada – Andhra Pradesh: In a striking demonstration of resilience and demand for dignity, gravediggers from across Andhra Pradesh gathered at Dharna Chowk in Vijayawada on Tuesday, seeking recognition of their centuries-old profession. Clad in black shirts, white dothis, and red scarves, with sticks in hand, they marched from the Vijayawada Railway Station, voicing their demand to be appointed as fourth-class government employees. The protest, organized by the Gravediggers Association (affiliated with KVPS), highlighted the plight of those who tend to the departed but remain invisible to society.

A life of labor, a demand for recognition

For generations, gravediggers have shouldered the burden of performing the final rites of the dead, yet their profession remains unrecognized. Unlike temple priests, mosque maulanas, or church pastors, who receive government honorariums, graveyard workers receive no financial support despite their indispensable role. “We serve every caste, every religion, every community in their final moments, yet we remain neglected,” lamented an association leader.

A protest of symbolism and struggle

Chaired by SGKS Kurnool District Secretary NG Krishna, the dharna saw fiery speeches from leaders like PDF Graduate MLC I Venkateswara Rao, who pledged to take their demands to the Legislative Council. “The black shirt symbolizes protest, the red scarf stands for revolution, and the stick is a warning to the government,” he declared, urging them to continue their fight for justice.

Demanding dignity: Their key appeals

KVPS State General Secretary Andra Malyadri and other leaders laid out specific demands:

Official recognition: Graveyard workers should be appointed as fourth-class employees and given identity cards.
Social security: A pension of Rs 8,000 per month for aged workers.
Essential tools: Provision of professional gear, including spades, gloves, shoes, torches, and uniforms.
Workplace safety: A perimeter wall for cemeteries to prevent encroachment.
Healthcare protection: Accident and health insurance for those exposed to hazardous conditions more dangerous than pandemics.

Voices of the marginalized

CITU State Secretary K Umamaheswara Rao, SC/ST Welfare Association leaders, and representatives from various workers’ unions joined the protest, emphasizing the necessity of recognizing the gravediggers’ labour. “A society that forgets those who care for its dead is one that lacks conscience,” said a speaker, urging immediate government intervention.

A call for change

With thousands of gravediggers from various districts participating, the protest sent a powerful message. As India progresses, the question remains—will those who perform society’s most sacred duty be given the dignity and recognition they deserve? The struggle continues until justice is served for these unsung keepers of the departed.