Mission Shakti Workers Protest Over Pending Demands

Bhubaneswar: The protest by the All Odisha GPLF Mission Shakti Karmi Sangh at Lower PMG entered its second day on Tuesday, with the workers voicing their demands for salary arrears and other grievances. Despite discussions with the state government, the union has decided to continue its agitation.

Congress has joined the ruling BJD in supporting the protest. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, addressing the situation, urged women not to be misled, stating, “There is no need to protest on the streets due to misinformation. The government is committed to taking appropriate steps for the welfare of women.”

The protest involves Community Support Staff from six cadres of Mission Shakti, including MBK, Bank Mitra, LSP, CRP, Krishi Mitra, and Prani Mitra. They are demanding the clearance of nine months’ salary arrears along with other issues.

The association has accused the government of ignoring their repeated complaints and warned of escalating the protest if their demands are not addressed soon. It has announced plans to mobilize 60,000 Mission Shakti workers across Odisha to join the agitation in the coming days.

Several BJD MLAs have visited the protest site at Lower PMG to express solidarity with the workers. The issue was also discussed in the Assembly on Monday, highlighting the urgency for resolution.