PANAJI
The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has issued notices to Block Development Officer (BDO) Tiswadi and the Secretary of the St Cruz Village Panchayat seeking a reply to a complaint alleging inhuman conditions of door-to-door garbage collectors.
The notices returnable by June 20 seek their appearance in person or through their representative with a reply to the allegations.
The complaint was filed by former Deputy Sarpanch Inacio Dominic Pereira alleging the workers have not been provided with protective gear by their employer panchayat. “The workers do not have basic protective gear such as gloves, masks, boots or uniforms and have no sanitation facilities. They are carrying out the work in inhumane conditions. These workers are forced to handle hazardous waste with bare hands, work, cook and stay in unsanitary conditions,” the complainant stated.
Pereira also informed the GHRC that a formal complaint was filed with the BDO, with proof based on which a memorandum was issued to the VP. The complainant added that he is still awaiting a response from BDO and the panchayat.
Pereira sought the Commission’s intervention to improve the conditions of the garbage collectors and ensure hygiene practices are followed in the interest of the workers and the residents.
