Tumkur : A protest took place in front of the district collector’s office on Monday, led by the union of hostel and residential school outsourcing employees. The protesters demanded minimum wages, weekly leave, and job security.
The employees’ union expressed dissatisfaction with receiving low wages for the past 20 years. They highlighted that kitchen helpers, cleaners, watchmen, D-group staff, and computer operators do not receive any facilities or minimum wages. The outsourced staff reportedly faces exploitation by warden, taluk, and district-level officials.
Hanumegowda, the state general secretary of the employees’ union, said, “A minimum salary of ₹31,000 should be fixed. According to labor department laws, weekly holidays should be provided along with fixed working hours.” He emphasized that no one’s salary should be reduced.
Ravikumar, district secretary of the employees’ union, added, “Contractors should provide a salary slip along with an appointment letter, ID card, ESI (Employee State Insurance), PF (Provident Fund) payment receipt. Salaries should be paid by the 5th of every month.” He also demanded the immediate release of outstanding salaries.
Leader Nagaraju stressed the need to increase staff numbers according to student enrollment in schools, suggesting at least 3 staff members per 50 students. He also requested proper supply of food materials needed in dormitories and hostels.
The protest was attended by CITU District Secretary NK Subramanya along with leaders like Rangamma, Radha, Mahesh, Mohankumar, etc. Additional District Collector Sivananda B. Karale received their memorandum requesting action on their demands.”