From No Festival Leave to Long Working Hours: Pune Sanitation Workers List Their Grievances
Viman Nagar, 1st August 2026: On the birth anniversary of Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe, Equera Foundation visited the Health Kothi at Viman Nagar to understand the issues faced by sanitation workers. Foundation Director Prachi Salve interacted with the workers, heard their grievances, and assured them that their concerns would be taken up with the relevant authorities.
During the interaction, sanitation workers alleged that they are not granted leave on public holidays, the birth anniversaries of great leaders, or during major festivals. They claimed that even on important occasions such as Maharashtra Day and Independence Day, they are required to work without receiving any additional wages or benefits. Contract sanitation workers further alleged that they are made to work longer hours than permanent employees without equal working conditions. Several workers also claimed they face disrespectful behaviour, inappropriate communication, and continuous mental harassment at the workplace.
Later, discussions were held with Santosh Bodke, Coordinator of Sumit Enterprises. According to Bodke, the work is being carried out in accordance with the official work order, and all relevant administrative records are available with the government office.
The team also contacted Sanitation Inspector Sachin Ladkat over the phone. As he was engaged in official duties related to the visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, a detailed meeting has been scheduled for Monday.
Subsequently, Prachi Salve, Devyani Mahanag, sanitation worker Sheetal Pawar, and other workers met Nikhil Gaikwad, President of Nirbhay Pratishthan, to discuss the future course of action. A meeting with Sanjay Pol, Assistant Commissioner of the Nagar Road Ward Office, has also been planned.
The Foundation stated that it will submit a representation to the Municipal Commissioner, seeking permanent measures to address the long-pending issues faced by sanitation workers.
