30-Day Protest by 108 Emergency Ambulance Service Employees Continues
Protest Against GVK EMRI's Management
Guwahati, Dec 30: The strike by workers of the 108 emergency ambulance service has reached its 30th day, with demonstrators accusing the state government and the National Health Mission (NHM) of neglecting their concerns and failing to take action against the service provider, GVK EMRI.
Protesters have raised serious allegations of widespread corruption, harassment, and mismanagement by GVK EMRI, stating that their repeated appeals to the authorities have not resulted in any significant action.
They also expressed concern over unresolved issues faced by employees who have lost their jobs or livelihoods amid the ongoing dispute.
According to the workers, they were promised further discussions and an investigation into GVK EMRI's operations, but they claim that no follow-up has been communicated to them.
Laxmikanta Roy, a long-time employee, emphasized their dedication, stating, “We have been protesting since December 1, enduring the cold. We have served the people of Assam for 17 years. We have families that depend on us for job security and benefits. Why has there been no resolution after all this time?”
Another protester, Babita Das, asserted that the demonstration would persist until their demands are addressed. “We will not end our protest until our issues are resolved. The company fails to provide proper employment and timely salaries. We have been protesting since 2018, and conditions have only deteriorated,” she remarked.
On December 26, a group of 108 employees met with NHM Mission Director Dr. Lakman N.S., where they presented documents and evidence regarding the alleged corruption and harassment by the company.
Another protester noted that previous meetings with officials have not yielded any concrete results. “While discussions took place, we have not received clear communication. Consider the plight of nearly 3,000 employees. The quality of service provided by 108 has significantly declined,” he claimed.
The protesters have warned that they will escalate their agitation if the government does not act on the commitments made during discussions with NHM representatives.