BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 25th June 2024: Van Mitra workers have come forward with a series of demands including an increase in daily wages and the payment of outstanding arrears. The workers later took their concerns directly to the Director of the Forest Department.
An official revealed that approximately 600 forest allied workers were recruited under the Forest department in 2021. Initially, the employment period was limited to 10 days per month, with a daily wage of Rs 212. “Later, their employment was extended to 20 days and their daily wage increased to Rs 226,” the official stated. Despite this increase, workers are struggling to support their families on the current wages.
The workers have expressed frustration over not receiving their salaries for the past three months, leading to significant financial hardships. One worker lamented, “We are facing severe financial problems due to the delay in salary payments. We have no other choice but to take action.”
The demands put forward by the workers include a hike in daily wages, immediate payment of salary arrears, and the provision of appropriate clothing for workers. They have issued a stern warning, indicating that if their demands are not addressed, they will escalate their protests. “If our demands are not met, we will join a larger movement in the coming days,” another worker declared.
The Forest department has yet to respond to these demands, but the workers’ determination to secure better conditions underscores the urgent need for resolution.
