Dharna by silicosis victims

14 December, Jodhpur: Silicosis victims under the banner of Rajasthan State Mine Labour Union (RSMLU) have been sitting on dharna since last 14 days outside the District Collector’s office in Jodhpur demanding compensation and rehabilitation. NHRC had ordered rehabilitation of 48 silicosis affected persons in Jodhpur, but 5 among them died without getting any medical help. 35 workers including the family members of the victims are on dharna since 12 December 2011, which includes 8 workers on hunger strike. Out of 48 silicosis victims who were listed for benefits in the case filed with the NHRC, 16 were re-examined in the same hospital and reports did not confirm silicosis, thereby government disregarding the claim of compensation.

The other demands of the workers are inclusion of silicosis victims in the BPL category and enforcement of maintenance of workers records and safety measures in the mines. The government has ordered mandatory registration of all mine workers in the quarries and mines, violation of which will lead to cancellation of mining lease.