Siwan: Sanitation services in Siwan were brought to a standstill on the eve of Holi after dozens of municipal sanitation workers stopped work in protest against unpaid wages. Heaps of uncollected garbage lined major roads, marketplaces and residential neighbourhoods, as workers staged demonstrations and scattered waste in parts of the town.
The protest, which began early in the morning, disrupted routine civic operations at a time when preparations for Holi were under way. Residents expressed concern over mounting waste and potential health risks, particularly as the festival draws crowds into public spaces. Markets and busy intersections were among the worst affected, with local shopkeepers complaining of falling footfall amid the disorder.
Amit Kumar, a leader of the municipal sanitation workers’ union, said the protest involved workers hired through an NGO rather than those directly employed by the government. “The workers in my group, who are on the government payroll, have received their salaries. Those protesting are employed through an NGO and have not been paid. Around 30 to 40 workers were involved,” he said.
According to workers, wages have been pending for several months despite repeated representations to officials. With Holi approaching, many said they were struggling to manage household expenses and would not return to work until their dues were cleared. The protest centres on outstanding payments amounting to Rs 90 lakh, including EPF and ESIC contributions.
The dispute is not new. Workers had announced plans for an indefinite strike earlier in February, but intervention by the district administration led to a temporary suspension after assurances were given that payments would be made within a week. Those funds, workers say, have yet to be credited to their accounts.
Municipal council officials maintained that the payment process is under way and said discussions with representatives of the workers were ongoing. Authorities have expressed hope that an agreement can be reached quickly to restore sanitation services before Holi celebrations begin in full swing.
