A major protest is underway as sanitation workers in Amritsar go on hunger strike outside the Amritsar Improvement Trust (AIT) office at Ranjit Avenue. The workers launched an indefinite strike and said they will not stop until officials meet their demands. They oppose the existing contract system, which they say creates conditions like bonded labor and traps them in insecure, low-paying jobs.

Many of these workers have served the Trust for years, yet officials never gave them permanent jobs. They currently earn only Rs 300 per day, which is too little to support their families. Because of this, they struggle to pay for basic needs like housing, healthcare, and education. Their situation highlights how labor rights remain a serious problem in Punjab, especially for Dalit workers in marginalized communities.

They are holding a relay protest, with two workers fasting each day while others support them. Their key demands are clear, end the contract system and regularize their jobs. Many workers say the contract model denies them job security, fair wages, and essential benefits. They also point out that officials have not updated the DC rate (minimum daily wage) for years, leaving them stuck in poverty.

No senior officials from the AIT or the district administration have visited the protest site yet. However, the police have deployed officers to maintain peace and ensure safety, showing how tense the situation has become. On Thursday, officials promised that a group of workers could meet the Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar to discuss their concerns. That promise gave them hope, but they remain determined to continue the strike.

During the demonstration, Nitish Bhim from the Bhim Action Committee addressed the crowd. He accused the Punjab government of ignoring labor rights and showing a negative attitude toward Dalit workers. Nitish said the protest would remain peaceful but continue until all demands are fulfilled. He also noted that sanitation workers across Punjab, including those in Mohali, face similar challenges.

Every worker deserves fair pay, job security, and dignity. Yet, sanitation workers say the government has denied them these rights for too long. Their struggle is not just about wages — it is about respect, equality, and justice. Their strike exposes larger issues of social injustice and economic inequality that impact thousands of workers across the state.

The protest is also a message to society to value the crucial work these workers do. They keep cities clean and functioning, yet many people overlook their contributions. Their hunger strike sends a strong reminder that they deserve respect, fair pay, and legal protection.

The strike also highlights the urgent need for government action. Officials must revise outdated labor policies, increase minimum wages, and end exploitative systems. Most importantly, they must begin an honest dialogue with workers and listen to their demands.

In conclusion, the ongoing protest shows how determined these workers are to change their lives. Their courage has sparked a broader debate about labor rights and dignity. As sanitation workers in Amritsar go on hunger strike, the government now faces strong pressure to act quickly, meet their demands, and ensure fair working conditions for all.

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The festive season is a time for joy and tradition, but it also needs caution. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Punjab Government ensures safety and health during festival through several important steps. With Diwali near, the state has increased security and started health drives to ensure worry-free celebrations.

The government expects more public gatherings during the festival. Therefore, strong security measures are in place. The Punjab Police are deployed in key areas to maintain peace and react quickly if needed. Special monitoring teams will patrol markets, transport hubs, and religious places to stop any trouble.

Health and food safety are top priorities. CM Mann raised concerns about food adulteration, which often increases during festivals. To address this, he directed the Health Department to launch special inspections of sweets and packaged items. Teams will collect samples, and officials will punish anyone selling unsafe products. He also urged traders to focus on quality and check their stock regularly.

Mann encouraged families to make healthy choices. He suggested using organic products and eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Good nutrition, he said, keeps people healthy and makes celebrations more enjoyable.

Safety during Diwali is another key focus. Firecrackers, though traditional, often cause injuries and pollution. Mann asked citizens to celebrate a “Green Diwali” by using fewer crackers. He advised parents to keep children away from fireworks and choose eco-friendly alternatives. Being careful can prevent burns, eye injuries, and accidents.

The Chief Minister also responded to political events. Speaking about Navjot Sidhu’s return to politics, he said people are free to join or leave politics anytime. However, he added that nothing significantly new is expected from Sidhu and wished him well.

Mann addressed opposition criticism over recent floods too. He explained that natural disasters are beyond human control and happen in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as well. The government is conducting girdawari (damage checks) and will soon give compensation cheques to affected families. He said a detailed damage report has already gone to the Central Government for financial aid.

The Chief Minister also expressed sorrow over recent losses. He mourned the deaths of singer Rajvir Jwanda and bodybuilder Varinder Ghuman. Their contributions to Punjabi culture, he said, will always be remembered.

Mann’s statements reflect a hands-on approach to public welfare. From safety and health checks to disaster relief and cultural support, the government is working to protect and serve its people.

In conclusion, the Punjab Government ensures safety and health during festival by boosting security, ensuring food safety, promoting eco-friendly celebrations, and helping flood-affected families. As the festive season begins, the government encourages people to stay careful, eat healthy, and celebrate responsibly.

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The Chandigarh takes action against cab companies as the State Transport Authority (STA) begins strict enforcement of transport laws. Recently, STA issued show-cause notices to major cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, inDrive, and Rapido for violating the Chandigarh Motor Vehicle Aggregator Policy-2025. This move follows a large number of complaints from drivers working across the Tricity region, who claim that companies are ignoring government rules and harming their livelihoods.

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