Gaon Sathi workers launch indefinite strike in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Over 10,000 Gaon Sathis, involved in assisting implementation of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), have launched indefinite strike in Bhubaneswar to press for their five-point charter of demands.

The Gaon Sathis, under the aegis of joint action committee, took out a rally from Ram Mandir Square to Lower PMG here on Sunday before launching their indefinite strike. Their demands include Rs 6,000 monthly allowance and incentives among others.

The agitators alleged that the ruling-BJD had assured (pre-election) to provide employment for at least 10 days a month. Besides, assurance was given to compensate them through corpus fund in case they do not get work.

They alleged that the promises are yet to be fulfilled and hence, they have launched the agitation. They have sought the attention of chief minister, chief secretary and 5T secretary over their demands and threatened to continue their strike till their demands are fulfilled.

"We have been demanding to provide us adequate works, minimum Rs 6,000 monthly allowance and regularisation of job," said a protestor.

"We were earlier assured of adequate works and Rs 6,000 monthly remuneration. However, instead of fulfilling our demands, now the government is warning us of action. Therefore, we have launched the strike," said another protestor.