The Dakshina Kannada Pourakarmikas and Grade 4 Workers Association has called on the government to regularise 387 pourakarmikas still employed on a contract basis by the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC). These workers serve as loaders, drain cleaners, and drivers.
Association secretary S.P. Anand, addressing the press on Saturday, noted that although the State Government had issued an order in 2017 to regularise services, only 462 pourakarmikas have been brought under permanent status so far. However, 127 loaders, 100 drainage workers, and 157 drivers continue to remain on contracts.
“Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured that all pourakarmikas across the state will be regularised by May 1. We sincerely hope MCC follows through swiftly,” Anand said, urging immediate action.
Interestingly, Anand also pointed out that none of the 102 pourakarmikas in other local bodies across Dakshina Kannada are on contract. “All are being paid directly and enjoy permanent employment status,” he stated.
Association president Anil Kumar highlighted the dire need for housing for civic workers. He demanded the construction of individual homes for pourakarmikas on land already earmarked for them in Pachchanady, Mangalajyoti Nagar, and Yekkur.
The association stressed that the delay in regularisation not only causes insecurity among workers but also impacts their dignity, benefits, and future.
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