Bhubaneswar, Sept. 24 (UDN): The agitation by Gaon Sathi workers in Odisha intensified on Wednesday as the protest entered its third day, with members staging a symbolic demonstration by eating grass and raw vegetables at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar.
The protest has been organised by the Gaon Sathi Sangha Joint Action Committee over a nine-point charter of demands, including higher monthly remuneration, social security benefits, block-cadre status and career progression.
The protesters said the symbolic act was intended to highlight what they described as financial hardship caused by low remuneration and pending payments.
Nine-Point Charter of Demands
Among the key demands raised by the association are recognition of Gaon Sathis as block-cadre employees, a monthly remuneration of more than Rs 15,000, social security coverage and promotion of eligible workers to Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS) posts.
The association has also sought recognition of eligible Gaon Sathis as ‘Sathis’ under the VB-G RAM G scheme, along with work orders and timely payment of remuneration.
According to the protesters, assurances had previously been given on some of their demands, but they claim that the decisions have not been implemented.
Protesters Warn of Hunger Strike
Gaon Sathi Sangha Joint Action Committee president Laxmidhar Biswal said the symbolic demonstration was meant to draw attention to the workers’ financial difficulties.
He appealed for government intervention, seeking an increase in monthly remuneration, clearance of pending dues, social security benefits, block-cadre status and promotion opportunities.
The association has also announced plans for a hunger strike, with protesters saying members have already begun fasting as part of the agitation. They warned that the protest could be expanded if their demands are not addressed.
The agitation has brought together Gaon Sathi workers from different parts of Odisha at Lower PMG, with the protesters stating that they will continue their demonstration until they receive a concrete response from the state government.
The state government’s response to the demands and the protesters’ proposed escalation of the agitation is awaited.
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