Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 09 February 2024
A delegation from the Andaman & Nicobar Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh (ANRKM) of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh recently convened with Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Hon’ble Minister of State for the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, to discuss pressing concerns affecting the working classes of the A&N Islands.
At the forefront of the discussion was the issue of regularising Daily Rated Mazdoors (DRMs), with the delegation elaborating on the invaluable services these workers have provided in the development of the A & N Islands, often in remote areas devoid of basic amenities. They highlighted the challenges faced by DRMs, many of whom are above the age of 45 and have been working tirelessly without job security. The delegation underscored the precarious situation faced by the families of DRMs who have passed away, met with accidents, or retired without adequate support.
Furthermore, the delegation presented detailed financial implications, emphasizing that while the regularisation of DRMs would lead to a modest increase in expenditure, it would provide much-needed social security to these workers.
Dr. Jitendra Singh attentively listened to the delegation’s concerns and reviewed the relevant documents. He assured the delegation that their request would be considered positively and indicated that a meeting with senior officers would be convened shortly to reach a favourable conclusion.
In addition to the regularisation of DRMs, the delegation also discussed the extension of Hard Area coverage to the entire Union Territory and the establishment of an Andaman Nicobar Cadre. The Minister commended the efforts of Mr. Vishal Jolly in advocating for the welfare of the working class.
The delegation comprised Mr. Jaydeep Kr. Dey, President ANRKM; Mr. Vijay Kumar, Vice President, ANRKM; Mr. S. Biju Pillai, General Secretary, ANRKM; Ms. D. Viji, Secretary, Swastya Vibhag Karmachari Sangh; Mr. Laxman, President, APWD Karmachari Sangh; and Ms. Mohini, Org. Secretary, APWD Karmachari Sangh. As a gesture of appreciation, the delegation presented a memento – a replica of the Ram Mandir – to the Hon’ble Minister.
The success of the meeting was attributed to the active and persistent efforts of Mr. Vishal Jolly, NEC Member of the BJP. ANRKM expressed gratitude to Mr. B.L. Santosh, National General Secretary (Org) of BJP, and Mr. Vishal Jolly for their support in facilitating the meeting.