Guwahati Safaikarmi Community Flags Neglect, Warns Protest
Members of the safaikarmi (sanitation workers) community in Guwahati on March 25 raised concerns over long-standing neglect, warning of stronger action if their demands are not addressed.
Addressing the media, Bhim Basfor said the community has remained on the margins regardless of which party has been in power, highlighting persistent gaps in development and welfare.
The Safaikarmi community in Guwahati has raised concerns over neglect in areas like land rights, education, and employment, warning of statewide protests after the Assam elections if their demands are not addressed.
Key Issues Raised
The community outlined several major concerns affecting their daily lives:
- Lack of land rights:
Many families reportedly do not have allocated land, leading to long-term insecurity - Education challenges:
Declining access to quality education for children - Employment issues:
Demand for permanent recruitment in government roles
Basfor said these issues have remained unresolved over the years despite repeated appeals.
“Neglected by All Governments”
Speaking on behalf of the community, Basfor stated that both past and present governments have failed to address their concerns.
He emphasised that:
- Development has not reached the community adequately
- Welfare measures have been limited or inconsistent
- Structural issues remain unchanged
The remarks reflect growing frustration among sanitation workers in Guwahati.
Warning of Protest After Elections
The community has issued a clear warning:
- If demands are not met, a statewide protest may be organised
- The proposed timeline is after the elections, in May
This comes at a time when political campaigning is intensifying across Guwahati ahead of the Assembly polls.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Safaikarmis play a crucial role in maintaining sanitation and public hygiene in Guwahati.
Their concerns highlight:
- Gaps in urban welfare systems
- Need for inclusive development policies
- Importance of stable employment for essential workers
The issue also intersects with broader civic infrastructure and public health in the city.
What Happens Next
The community has expressed hope that authorities will take immediate steps to address their concerns. Any response from the government may influence the course of action in the coming weeks.
With elections approaching, the issue is likely to remain part of the larger political and social discourse in Guwahati.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the main demands of the Safaikarmi community?
They are seeking land rights, better education facilities, and permanent employment opportunities.
Q2. Why are they protesting?
They say they have been neglected by successive governments.
Q3. When could protests take place?
They have warned of statewide protests after the elections in May if demands are unmet.