The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has initiated a formal inquiry into serious allegations of wage discrimination against outsourced messengers working in the state's mandal education offices. The complaint highlights a stark pay gap, where employees with over two decades of service are reportedly receiving far less than the government-mandated minimum wage.
Decades of Service, Inadequate Pay
The heart of the complaint lies in the alleged payment of only ₹11,050 per month to these office subordinates. This figure stands in direct contradiction to the minimum monthly remuneration of ₹15,600 prescribed by the state government's order, G.O.Ms.No.60 dated June 11, 2021. Many of the affected workers have served for more than twenty years, yet continue to be compensated at the lower rate.
Adding to the grievance is the claim of discrimination compared to peers in other government departments. The complainants have stated that similarly placed outsourced employees in other branches of the state administration receive higher wages, raising questions about fairness and uniform policy implementation.
Commission Flags Rights Violations
Taking a serious view of the allegations, the Commission, chaired by Justice Shameem Akther, has noted that the issue touches upon fundamental rights. The TGHRC observed that the accusations raise significant concerns over potential violations of the right to livelihood and the right to live with dignity, principles enshrined in the Constitution.
In response, the Commission has issued directives to the top authorities in the education department. The director of school education and ex-officio state project director of the Telangana Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (TSSA) has been ordered to submit a detailed factual report. This report must comprehensively explain the reasons behind the wage disparity and outline the steps taken to ensure compliance with the government's own remuneration norms.
Next Steps and Deadline
The matter has been officially listed for further consideration by the Commission on January 5. The upcoming hearing will likely review the report submitted by the education department officials and determine the next course of action. The TGHRC's intervention underscores the legal and ethical imperative for equal pay for equal work, especially for long-serving employees in essential public service roles.
This case puts a spotlight on the working conditions and fair compensation for outsourced personnel within government ecosystems, a prevalent practice across many states. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar wage disparity complaints are addressed in the future, ensuring that contractual or outsourced staff are not deprived of their rightful earnings as per established government orders.
