Bhopal Panchayat Workers Begin Hunger Strike Demanding Minimum Wage and Security

Guard, cleaning staff and pump operators of the local panchayat in Bhopal began a hunger strike at the board office intersection after police removed them from a protest outside a BJP office. The workers are demanding a minimum wage that meets the state standard, recognition as fourth‑class employees, job security and payment of arrears that have been pending for months. They claim that their current wages are below the prescribed minimum and that their employment status does not provide the benefits that other government employees receive. The strike is focused on securing better working conditions and fair compensation for the staff who maintain village infrastructure. Local authorities have yet to respond to the demands.