Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 October 2025
A delegation of the Nagarpallika Swachhtha Karmachari Sangh (NSKS), led by officials of the Andaman Nicobar Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh (ANRKM), met Mr. Azharuddin Zahiruddin Quazi, IAS, Secretary of the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council (SVPMC), on Wednesday to discuss pressing issues concerning the working class, particularly sanitary workers.
The meeting, held in the Secretary’s chamber, focused on long-pending matters and routine concerns of the sanitation workforce. During the discussions, the Secretary confirmed the implementation of weekly offs for all workers across wards on a rotational basis, fulfilling a long-standing demand. He also assured the regular provision of protective gear and essential supplies, including brooms and soap.
Addressing discrepancies in EPF and service records for some workers highlighted by the delegation, Mr. Quazi stated that a dedicated camp would be organized to rectify errors, and, where possible, office-level corrections would be facilitated.
The Secretary further encouraged the submission of detailed proposals for ESIC coverage to facilitate cashless treatment at mainland hospitals. Discussions were also held on extending death insurance coverage, similar to the scheme implemented by the police department, with further deliberations planned regarding premium payments and stakeholder involvement.
To improve sanitary workers’ appearance and comfort, the Secretary indicated that new all-weather uniforms would be considered following a financial review. Basic facilities such as toilets, washrooms, and drinking water would also be enhanced by linking nearby community halls and other municipal assets to sanitation sections to create a better working environment.
The delegation was led by Mr. Jaydeep Kumar Dey, President, ANRKM, and Mr. S. Biju Pillai, General Secretary, ANRKM, along with NSKS representatives Mr. Shyam Sunder Rao, President; Mr. A. Palaniandi, Secretary; and Mr. Y. Santosh Kumar, Finance Secretary.
The delegation expressed gratitude to the Secretary and emphasized the importance of continuing the dialogue to ensure smooth redressal of workers’ grievances.
