The Karnataka High Court has called upon the state government to formulate a comprehensive plan to protect sanitation workers (powrakarmikas) during the extreme heat conditions of summer. The court raised concerns about the absence of a structured approach to address the impact of heatwaves on these workers, who are vital to maintaining public sanitation.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna, presiding over the case, remarked:
"When this contingency happens every year, heatwaves will be there in several parts of the state during this period. Why don’t you (state government) put in a complete plan? Why is there ad-hocism? When it comes to heatwaves, this is the protection to powrakarmikas that should be given straight away."
Read Also:- Karnataka High Court Upholds Bengaluru Metro Fare Hike, Says Decision Lies with Administration
The bench was hearing a petition filed by the All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), which sought directives to the Chief Secretary of Karnataka to ensure the implementation of necessary protective measures for sanitation workers. The petition specifically urged compliance with the Karnataka State Heat Wave Action Plan 2024-25 and the advisory issued under the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health by the Health and Family Welfare Department.
The petitioners stressed that sanitation workers rely entirely on the government for protection and support during extreme weather conditions. The court acknowledged their concerns, stating:
"They have no other means than depending on the state."
As an interim measure, the petitioners requested the court to direct the government to act upon the communication dated March 12, 2025, issued by the Karnataka Commission for Safai Karamcharis. This communication, addressed to various government departments, including the Urban Development Department, Directorate of Municipal Administration, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Chief Commissioner of BBMP, and Deputy Commissioners, emphasized the need for urgent protective measures.
Read Also:- Karnataka HC Rules That Writ Jurisdiction Cannot Decide Third-Party Rights in Arbitration Matters
During the proceedings, the government advocate pointed out that the petition sought directives against all municipalities, each of which has an independent budget to manage its staff. However, the court was unconvinced by this argument and firmly stated:
"To provide water to a poor man for drinking in the hot summer, you need a budget."
Additionally, the court directed the Additional Government Advocate (AGA) to obtain instructions on the requests made in the petition. This included regulating working hours for sanitation workers during extreme heat and ensuring access to essential facilities such as drinking water. The matter was scheduled for further hearing on Friday.
Highlighting the urgency of the issue, the court also noted the lack of action on the Karnataka Commission for Safai Karamcharis’ order from March 12, 2025. The court expressed its dissatisfaction, stating:
"The order was passed on March 12, and nothing has been implemented. It is not for those who have everything; it is for those who have nothing. You should act immediately. On Friday, we will pass a comprehensive order."
Read Also:- Karnataka High Court: Inflating Contract Figures and Challenging Tax Authorities Amounts to Defrauding State
The case, titled All India Central Council of Trade Unions vs. State of Karnataka & Others (Case No: WP 8683/2025), saw Advocate Clifton D Rozario appearing on behalf of the petitioner. The court is expected to issue further directives to ensure that sanitation workers receive the necessary protection and support during the peak summer months.
Appearance: Advocate Clifton D Rozario for Petitioner.
Case Title: All India Central Council of Trade Unions AND State of Karnataka & Others
Case No: WP 8683/2025.
