108 Ambulance workers turn beggars in Sambalpur

Sambalpur: Refusing to budge from their stand, the agitating 108 ambulance staff on Sunday resorted to begging as a mark of protest against the arrest of their colleagues.

Around 25 ambulance drivers launched the 'symbolic protest' in front of Samaleswari temple to press for the release of other employees who were arrested last week.

"We didn't have any other option except than begging. We requested the State government but no action was taken on our grievances rather some drivers were arrested and our salaries were held up," said Sakti Prakash Das, a driver.

Das further stated that whatever amount will be collected, the money will be provided to the family members of the employees who have been arrested.

The 108 ambulance employees are also demanding for removal of the concerned agency managing the ambulance services as it is allegedly engaged in irregularities. They are also demanding a hike in wages.

The ambulance drivers had earlier staged demonstration over various demands near Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC) office, Northern Divisional, Sambalpur.