Haryana government announces job security for sanitation workers

The Haryana government, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, has announced measures to provide job security and financial benefits to approximately 13,093 sanitation workers employed on municipal rolls. Under the proposed Haryana Contractual Employees (Assurance of Service) Act 2024, these workers will be guaranteed employment until the age of 60.

Key financial provisions include a monthly risk allowance of ₹2,000 and a 15 percent increase in monthly wages above the standard act rates. Workers with over 10 years of service will see their monthly pay rise to ₹25,560. Additional benefits such as annual Dearness Allowance (DA), maternity leave, and death-cum-retirement gratuity are also being introduced.

Despite these announcements, sanitation workers have continued to protest, demanding full regularization of their services. The Nagarpalika Karamchari Sangh has extended its strike through September 9, rejecting government offers. The ongoing agitation has disrupted waste collection services across several areas. Political opposition, including Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, has criticized the administration for its perceived lack of dialogue with the protesting workers.