Pourakarmikas to get permanent jobs on May 1

Bengaluru
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday announced that pourakarmikas (civic workers) across the state will be given permanent jobs starting May 1, on Labour Day. The declaration was made during the 25th annual celebration of the Pourakarmika Maha Sangha and a public awareness event at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru.

Speaking to the gathering, Siddaramaiah said, “Like the vachanas of Basavanna that say ‘work is worship’, you are engaged in sacred labour. Few are willing to do the kind of work you do. Hence, it is the government’s responsibility and duty to address your issues and fulfil your demands.”

He added, “There is no difference between a Chief Secretary and a pourakarmika. All services are sacred. It is not right to treat you disrespectfully. You, too, deserve professional dignity and social respect. Therefore, your services will be made permanent.”

The Chief Minister also announced that drivers working on contract with pourakarmikas will be regularised. He stressed the importance of educating pourakarmikas' children: “Educate all your children. Every child has talent; they just need an opportunity.”

He assured that pourakarmikas will receive cashless health cards and their identity-related concerns will be addressed.

CM Siddaramaiah praised former Bengaluru Mayor Narayan for his contributions and noted that his government ended the contract system, ensured direct salary payments, built 524 houses in Mysuru, and raised pourakarmikas’ salaries from ₹7,000 to ₹17,000. He also mentioned that 1,000 pourakarmikas are sent abroad annually to help them gain global exposure.