Over 5,000 MGNREGA workers begin indefinite strike in Ranchi

Mail News Service

Ranchi, July 22: More than 5,000 MGNREGA workers in the state have initiated an indefinite strike starting Monday.

The workers had been agitating for a long time, demanding service stabilization and social security. The strike will affect the functioning of various schemes run under MGNREGA in the state.

According to sources, the strike by Rozgaar Sevaks, computer operators, engineers, BPO workers, and others will cause disruptions in the operation of several schemes, including the Birsa Irrigation Promotion Well, Birsa Green Mango Garden, Abua Awas, and Veer Poto Ho Sports Ground. Additionally, the payment of wages to about 250,000 workers may be impacted.

The MGNREGA workers expressed that they had dedicated their entire youth to government service and were now concerned about their future as they aged. They highlighted their contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they provided employment to laborers despite the risks.

The MGNREGA workers played  crucial roles in the blocks, and they were demanding amendments to the appointment rules and the implementation of permanent service grades. A letter detailing these demands had been issued by John Bagge, the state president.

The workers criticized the government for providing false assurances during its tenure. Despite various protests, including gherao of the Rural Development Minister’s residence, the Assembly, a 100 km pad yatra, and gherao of the Chief Minister’s residence, no action had been taken. This, they said, demonstrated the government’s autocratic behavior.

The NREGA workers had been contributing to MGNREGA, a significant scheme of the Rural Development Department of the Government of India, for 17 years.