Udupi: Strike brings gram panchayat services to a standstill; Offices closed

Team Udayavani, Oct 4, 2024, 7:08 PM IST

Protestors at Freedom Park, Bengaluru

Udupi: Gram Panchayat services across Udupi district have come to a halt as officers and staff, including Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs) and secretaries, participate in an indefinite strike. The strike, which is in support of various demands, has left residents facing hardships as all Gram Panchayat offices remain closed.

More than 1,000 employees, including PDOs, secretaries, Second Division Assistants (SDAs), watermen, bill collectors, and sanitation workers, have joined the protest. Over 300 employees have traveled to Bengaluru to take part in the demonstration at Freedom Park, while others are striking from home. The protest is expected to continue until the government meets their demands, according to union leaders.

Residents who visit Gram Panchayat offices for essential services are being turned away as no officers or staff are available. People have expressed frustration at the situation, as they are unable to access timely services and are forced to return home without resolving their issues.

Currently, only Gram Panchayat presidents and members are occasionally visiting the offices, but they are unable to offer services due to the absence of staff. The Gram Panchayat Members’ Federation has also extended its support to the strike.

During the protest held at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, key participants included PDO Welfare Association President Manjunath Shetty, former President Mahim Shetty, Kundapur Taluk President Chandra Billava, Secretary Jayaram Shetty, Byndoor Taluk President Rukkanagowda, Brahmavar’s Anil Shetty, Udupi’s Santosh Jogi, Karkala’s Tilakraj, and Council Member Siddhesh. Other notable participants were Satish Waddarse, Divya Shekhar, Satish Tolar, Purnima, and Harish.