Mysore/Mysuru: Maintaining that he has zero tolerance for lethargic officials, Karnataka Safai Karmachari Commission Chairman Kote M. Shivanna has warned that officials who fail to distribute safety wears and gadgets to Pourakarmikas serving in urban and rural local bodies, will be sent to jail.

Speaking to presspersons at Jaladarshini here on Monday, after visiting the Pourakarmika Colony atop Chamundi Hill, Shivanna said that it is regretting to note that authorities had failed to distribute safety gadgets even during the COVID-19 crisis. Stating that he has seen many Pourakarmikas  working in bare hands, he said that it is the responsibility of the Commission to ensure their safety. 

Pointing out that he will hold a meeting with MCC officials on the issue in a couple of days, he said that the Commission will be forced to invoke its powers to act against apathetic officials.

Stating that the National Law School of India has recommended  appointment of one Pourakarmika for 500 people, Shivanna said that, however, at present, there is one Pourakarmika for every 5,000 people. 

“Direct credit of Pourakarmika wages has started from April and I have  directed the authorities to build rest rooms for Pourakarmikas at all City Corporations in State. There is no need for an exclusive Insurance for Pourakarmikas as in the case of Anganawadi workers and I have told the authorities to make use of available Insurance,” he said.

Pourakarmika leaders appealed the Chairman to provide employment as per their educational qualifications. Pointing out that Chamundi Hill UGD worker Cheluvaraju died while on duty, they said that his family members were yet to get compensation from the Government even after nine months of his death. They asked the Chairman to give necessary directions in this regard.

Mysuru TP Executive Officer Krishnakumar, District Safai Karmachari Vigilance Committee member K. Nanjappa, Pourakarmika leaders  N. Mara,  Shekar, Palani, Aruna and others were present.