Kanpur Dehat sanitation workers demand old pension scheme and promotions

Hundreds of sanitation workers marched through the district headquarters of Kanpur Dehat on Thursday, rallying under the banner of the Panchayati Raj Gramin Safai Karmachari Sangh to press for three key demands. The tricolor rally, organized to amplify their grievances, culminated in the submission of a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister through the District Magistrate.

Led by district president Bharat Singh, the workers urged the state government to act swiftly on their longstanding concerns. The memorandum outlined three primary demands: restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), timely promotions for sanitation staff, and the creation of a comprehensive departmental service rulebook. The union emphasized that many sanitation employees have been stuck in the same positions for years without any prospect of career advancement, despite their dedicated service.

The workers highlighted the lack of a proper service framework as a critical issue. Without clear departmental rules, they argued, their rights and career progression remain uncertain. The restoration of the Old Pension Scheme was also a major rallying point, reflecting broader concerns among government employees across the state about retirement security under the current system.

The sanitation workers' union warned that if their demands are not addressed promptly, they will continue their democratic protest in the coming days. The memorandum handed over to the district administration called for immediate government intervention and resolution. The peaceful demonstration underscored the growing frustration among essential workers who feel overlooked despite performing crucial civic duties daily.