Pune: MLC Neelam Gorhe Assures Mathadi Workers Of Govt Action On Job Security

Pune: Maharashtra Legislative Council member Neelam Gorhe has promised government intervention on behalf of Mathadi workers employed at foodgrain storage facilities to safeguard their jobs. The MLC met with representatives of protesting hamal (animal carrier) workers outside the Council House, highlighting concerns over a government directive issued on April 24, 2026, regarding the direct shipment of grain from storage sites.

The union representing the workers claims that the order could impact approximately 10,000 registered Mathadi workers throughout the state. MLC Gorhe emphasized that the matter is linked to the workers' employment and fundamental rights, urging the government to examine the facts and resolve the issue. The unions had earlier stated that Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal had assured them during a meeting on May 26 that no Mathadi workers would lose their jobs; however, four months later, the directive has remained unchanged.

Gorhe pledged to follow up with the government via a scheduled meeting on October 6 at Mantralaya, where she will seek to amend the directive and ensure the employment protection of Mathadi workers. She requested the workers to provide all pertinent government documents and court filings prior to the meeting.