Security guards employed at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have accused a newly appointed contractor of demanding Rs 40,000 from each guard to retain their jobs. The guards, who have been working at the university for years, claim that the contractor threatened termination unless the payment was made. This has sparked widespread protests on the campus, with the guards demanding immediate intervention from the university administration.
Details of the Alleged Extortion
According to the guards, the new contractor took over the security contract recently and immediately began pressuring them to pay a hefty sum. The guards, many of whom earn modest wages, expressed shock and outrage at the demand. They stated that the contractor explicitly told them that without payment, they would be replaced by new hires. The guards have been holding protests near the administrative block, carrying placards and chanting slogans against the contractor and the university's alleged inaction.
Guards' Statement and Demands
In a joint statement, the guards said, "We have been serving JNU loyally for years, often under difficult conditions. Now, a new contractor is trying to extort money from us just to keep our jobs. This is illegal and unethical. We demand that the university administration cancel the contract with this firm and ensure our job security without any financial burden." They have also sought a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor to present their grievances.
University's Response
The JNU administration has not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources indicate that the university is looking into the allegations. A senior official said, "We have received complaints from the security guards. We are verifying the facts and will take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be true. The university does not condone any form of exploitation." The guards, however, remain skeptical and have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met.
Broader Implications
This incident has reignited debates about the working conditions of contract workers in Indian universities. Many activists and student groups have expressed solidarity with the guards, calling for a thorough investigation. They argue that such practices are rampant in the outsourcing industry, where contractors often exploit vulnerable workers. The JNU case could set a precedent for how universities handle similar disputes in the future.
As the protest continues, the guards have appealed to the public and student community to support their cause. They remain hopeful that the university will act swiftly to restore their dignity and ensure that no worker is forced to pay for their own job.
