Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of a complaint highlighting allegedly degrading working conditions faced by garbage collectors in St Cruz. The Commission has issued notices to the Tiswadi Block Development Officer (BDO) and the Secretary of the St Cruz Village Panchayat, directing them to respond to the allegations by June 20.
The complaint, lodged by former deputy sarpanch Inacio Dominic Pereira, accuses the panchayat of failing to provide essential safety gear to its sanitation workforce. According to Pereira, the door-to-door waste collection staff are forced to work without gloves, masks, boots, or uniforms, and are exposed to hazardous waste daily. He further alleged that the workers are living and working in unsanitary surroundings, with no access to basic sanitation facilities.
Pereira stated that a formal grievance was previously submitted to the BDO, along with supporting evidence, which reportedly led to a memorandum being issued to the panchayat. However, he claims there has been no follow-up action or official response.
Seeking redress through the Commission, Pereira urged immediate intervention to ensure the dignity and welfare of the sanitation workers, emphasizing the need for proper hygiene standards not just for the workers but also in the interest of public health.
The GHRC has asked both the BDO and the panchayat secretary to either appear in person or send representatives with a written explanation addressing the issues raised.
