Mysuru: Outsourced cleaning staff who were working in the Divisional Railway Office, staged a protest in front the Divisional Railway Manager’s (DRM) Office this morning alleging that they have been abruptly dismissed from their service by their Contractor.

The protestors accused Contractor M.C. Shwetha of denying facilities like minimum wages, ESI and PF. “She has forced the employees to open Bank Accounts in Mandya, took their ATM cards and has withdrawn money from their accounts,” they alleged.

As per rules, the minimum wages for the workers is Rs.12,826 per month and the Contractor is accused of paying  them only Rs.6,000 to 8,000.In addition, the Contractor has not maintained a register  as required.

These workers had approached the Karnataka State Railway Contract Mazdoor Association and as per their advice filed a complaint in the Labour Department Mysuru. Though aware of all the developments, the Railway authorities have not taken any action against the Contractor, the protestors alleged.

Karnataka State Safai Karmachari Commission Chairman M. Shivanna, who visited the spot, listened to their problems and assured that he will register a suo motto case against the Contractor as per the provisions of the Act, conduct an enquiry and ensure that they  get justice.

District INTUC President Anil Kumar, General Secretary Nanjappa Basavanagudi and others took part in the protest.