The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis has issued strict directions to contractors and officials over irregular provident fund (PF) deposits for sanitation workers.Deputy Chairman of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis, Hardeep Singh Gill, said the Commission was committed to the welfare of sanitation workers and was ensuring that necessary steps are taken for their safety and to resolve their issues.He further emphasized that provident fund contributions of sanitation workers must be mandatorily deducted and deposited. “There can be no excuses or delays when it comes to provident funds,” said Gill during his visit to Sangrur.During his visit, Gill met various department heads to review welfare measures related to sanitation workers. He also instructed that identity cards be issued to all sanitation workers, with their blood group clearly mentioned, and that insurance coverage for sanitation workers must be ensured.The Deputy Chairman directed Executive Officers to ensure the registration of all sanitation workers on the “Namaste” portal so that they can be provided with free sanitation kits and other safety equipment by the commission.During the meeting, officials of the Health Department were directed to organize regular health check-up camps for sanitation workers and to maintain comprehensive health records.Gill also held detailed discussions with representatives of sanitation workers’ unions, who submitted a memorandum outlining their demands. He reiterated that the commission was committed to resolving their issues.He directed that a survey of the exact number, social status and conditions of sanitation workers be completed within one month and that the report be submitted to the commission. Additionally, awareness camps and workshops should be organized regarding the MS Act, 2013.Police officials were also instructed to ensure that all Station House Officers are made aware of this Act and that action is taken in accordance with its provisions.The Deputy Chairman further directed that vacant posts of sanitation workers in all departments be filled with immediate effect. He also instructed that committees be formed as per the commission’s guidelines to safeguard the welfare and rights of sanitation workers, and that meetings of these committees be held every three months under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner.Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba assured the Deputy Chairman that welfare schemes for sanitation workers would be implemented in letter and spirit. He added that the commission’s guidelines would be effectively enforced at the ground level to ensure the welfare of sanitation workers in the district.Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Ankur Mahindru, SP Navreet Singh Virk and officials from various departments were also present on the occasion.