Hari Ram Sud, member of the National Safai Karamchari Commission, on Friday met the district administration officials at mini secretariat here and sensitised them about various schemes for the uplift of sanitation workers and their families. In spite of welfare measures by the state and the Central governments, the life of 'safai sewaks' (sanitation workers) was miserable, said Sud. "They should have wages as provided in the Labour Act," he added.

Sud wanted the administration to stop the exploitation of labourers by private companies in the district. "The safai sewaks and their families are unaware of welfare schemes such as easy loan and alternative-business assistance," he added, seeking a report on implementation in a month.
Acting deputy commissioner Mohammad Tayab assured the commission that the administration would look into the issues discussed.

Hans Raj Bhardwaj, leader of the Balmiki community, said on the occasion that he didn't believe that any of the demands would be fulfilled. "Earlier also, three members of the National Safai Karamchari Commission had visited Bathinda and met the district administration," said Raj. "After the meeting, every one forgets the agenda."