Unorganized Workers' Committee Calls for Regularization of Long-Serving Employees

Port Blair, India Jul 20, 2026 ALN: Mr. S. Tejeswara Rao, the State Chairman of the Unorganized Workers & Employees Congress Committee, has taken a significant step in advocating for the rights of unorganized workers by submitting a representation to the Lieutenant Governor. This representation calls for an amendment to the existing Service Rules and the formulation of a comprehensive Regularization Policy aimed at long-serving unorganized workers, casual laborers, daily rated mazdoors (DRMs), and 1/3rd pay employees who are currently employed across various departments within the administration.

The issue of regularization for unorganized workers is not merely a local concern but one that resonates across various states in India. Unorganized workers form a substantial part of the labor force in the country, often working in conditions that lack job security and formal recognition. Mr. Tejeswara Rao highlighted that thousands of these workers have been providing uninterrupted service for many years, engaging in duties that are of a permanent and perennial nature. Despite their commitment and contributions, many of these workers remain without regular status, which deprives them of essential job security, service benefits, and promotional opportunities.

This situation is particularly concerning given the backdrop of India's labor laws and constitutional provisions that aim to protect workers' rights. The Constitution of India guarantees equality before the law and equal opportunity in public employment, which underscores the need for fair treatment of all employees, regardless of their employment status. The Hon’ble Supreme Court has also recognized the authority of governments to create appropriate schemes for the regularization of eligible employees, reinforcing the legal basis for the demands being made by Mr. Tejeswara Rao and his committee.

In his representation, Mr. Tejeswara Rao emphasized the need for the government to extend the same considerations that have been applied in various policy relaxations and regularization schemes to all eligible long-serving workers. This call for action is not just about job regularization; it is also about ensuring social justice and dignity for those who have dedicated significant portions of their lives to serving the administration.

Regularization policies are vital for several reasons. Firstly, they provide job security to workers who have often endured precarious employment conditions. The economic landscape in India is marked by a significant informal sector, where many unorganized workers find themselves without the protections afforded to formal employees. Regularization allows workers to access benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other social security measures that are typically available to regular employees. Furthermore, it opens pathways for career advancement and professional development, which are crucial for personal growth and financial stability.

Mr. Tejeswara Rao's call for the amendment of existing Service Rules and the establishment of a fair and transparent Regularization Policy is a step towards addressing these long-standing issues. He urged the administration to consider forming a High-Level Committee tasked with examining all pending cases of regularization and ensuring that the process is completed within a fixed timeframe. This committee would play a crucial role in not only addressing the backlog of cases but also in establishing clear criteria and guidelines for future regularization efforts.

The implications of such a policy change could be far-reaching. For one, it could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues of unorganized labor. In recent years, various states have undertaken initiatives to regularize unorganized workers, but the effectiveness and implementation of these policies have varied widely. The establishment of a robust regularization framework in one state could inspire similar actions elsewhere, potentially leading to a more coordinated national approach to labor rights. Furthermore, it could inspire a broader conversation about labor rights and the need for comprehensive reforms in how unorganized workers are treated across the country. As the economy evolves and the nature of work changes, it is essential that labor laws and policies adapt to protect the rights and welfare of all workers, particularly those in vulnerable positions.

In addition to the legal and economic ramifications, there is also a moral imperative to consider. Many of these unorganized workers have devoted the prime years of their lives to public service, often in challenging conditions that require resilience and dedication. Ensuring that they receive the recognition and benefits they deserve is not only a matter of policy but also one of justice and fairness. The call for regularization is, therefore, not just a bureaucratic issue but a human rights concern that reflects the values of equity and dignity.

Mr. Tejeswara Rao expressed optimism that the Lieutenant Governor would give sympathetic consideration to the genuine demands of long-serving unorganized workers, casual laborers, daily rated mazdoors, and 1/3rd pay employees. He urged for early action to ensure justice, social security, and dignity for those who have contributed significantly to the administration's functioning.

This advocacy for regularization is part of a larger movement aimed at improving labor conditions and securing rights for unorganized workers throughout India. The plight of unorganized laborers has gained increasing attention in recent years, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities faced by this segment of the workforce. Many unorganized workers lost their jobs or faced significant pay cuts during the pandemic, heightening the urgency for policy reforms that address their precarious employment status.

As the government continues to navigate the complexities of labor relations, the voices of workers like those represented by Mr. Tejeswara Rao will be crucial in shaping policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of all segments of the workforce. The call for regularization is not simply a response to immediate challenges but a proactive approach to ensuring that the rights of unorganized workers are recognized and upheld in the long term. This movement for regularization could lead to a more equitable labor market, fostering a sense of security and respect for all workers, regardless of their employment status.

In conclusion, the representation submitted by Mr. S. Tejeswara Rao is a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for the rights of unorganized workers in India. It encapsulates the broader fight for justice, dignity, and recognition that these workers deserve. As discussions around labor policies evolve, the outcome of this representation could have lasting implications for the future of labor rights in the country, potentially ushering in a new era of reform that prioritizes the welfare of all workers.