On Wednesday, Kalaburagi was the scene of a determined demonstration as members of the Karnataka Rajya Samyukta Vasathi Nilaya Karmikara Sangha, an organization affiliated with the All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC), gathered outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Their main objective was to advocate for the permanent employment of contract staff working tirelessly in various hostels managed by social welfare and backward classes departments, as well as those under the Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society (KREIS).
In a detailed memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Sangha’s district president, Raghavendra M.G., and secretary, Sharnu Heroor, presented their critical demands. They urged the State government to not only formalize the positions of these essential employees but also to ensure they receive their salaries directly, circumventing any intermediary payment systems.
Highlighting the urgent need for improved working conditions, the union called for a minimum monthly wage of ₹36,000 for these crucial workers in the unorganized sector. Furthermore, they pressed for the full and proper implementation of existing labor laws, coupled with the provision of vital benefits such as provident fund (PF), Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), and gratuity, which are fundamental for worker security and well-being. A specific request was also included regarding hostels established after 2017, suggesting that each should be staffed with a dedicated team of 11 cooking personnel.