The indefinite strike by sanitation workers, sewer men, and other employees of the local municipal council in Tarn Taran continued for the second consecutive day on Thursday, leading to heaps of garbage accumulating at several places in the city. The workers are pressing for demands including regularisation of services, restoration of the old pension scheme, and implementation of equal pay for equal work.
Background of the Strike
The sanitation workers had previously gone on a strike for over a month, which was called off after the government agreed to their demands. However, the employees have resumed the agitation over other unresolved issues. According to organisation president Balwinder Singh, the government is treating them unfairly and forcing them to work on meagre allowances. He criticised the Punjab government for allegedly ignoring their demands.
Impact on Sanitation Services
The strike has severely affected sanitation services in the city. Garbage is piling up at various locations, and sewerage blockages have been reported at several places. The lack of regular waste collection poses health risks and environmental concerns for residents.
Leaders Address Protesters
Several other leaders addressed the gathering, including Tilak Raj, Judge Pal, Kala, Surjit Kumar, Harjit Singh, Joginder Pal, Bakshish, Pradeep Kumar, Raj Rani, Sukho, Americo, Biro, and Kamlesh. They expressed solidarity with the workers and reiterated the demand for fair treatment and implementation of previous agreements.
Demands of the Workers
The workers are demanding regularisation of their services, restoration of the old pension scheme, and adherence to the principle of equal pay for equal work. They argue that despite their essential role in maintaining public health and hygiene, they are being exploited with inadequate compensation and job insecurity.
