PHAGWARA: The indefinite dharna-cum-hunger strike by suspended Municipal Corporation employee Gobind Ghai has entered its 21st day, intensifying concerns over both his condition and the unresolved administrative controversy that led to his suspension.
Ghai, a Class IV employee, continues to sit in protest outside the Municipal Corporation office, positioned on a red-and-black mat along a roadside pavement. Appearing visibly fatigued yet determined, he has been demanding reinstatement and justice, claiming he has been unfairly targeted in a matter rooted in long-standing institutional practices.
A large banner displayed behind him, written in Punjabi, outlines his grievance in detail. It states that he has served as a safai karamchari and has been under immense stress since his suspension. The banner alleges that the act for which he was penalized was not an isolated decision but part of an established system known to senior officials. It further notes that despite approaching multiple officers for relief, no concrete response has been received, compelling him to undertake the hunger strike. The message underscores his appeal for justice and highlights what he describes as a blow to his dignity.
The protest stems from a widely condemned incident in which an unclaimed body was transported from the Civil Hospital to a cremation ground in a municipal garbage collection vehicle. The matter gained public attention after a video recorded by media personnel went viral, showing the body being carried in a vehicle typically used for waste disposal. The visuals triggered outrage among residents and social organizations, who termed the act inhumane and demanded accountability.
Following the incident, Ghai was suspended, while questions were raised about systemic practices within the Municipal Corporation. Initial accounts suggested that the driver involved had indicated that such procedures had been in place for a long time with the knowledge of officials, shifting focus from individual responsibility to administrative oversight.
Despite repeated attempts, ADC-cum-MC Commissioner Shikha Bhagat could not be contacted for comment. However, Phagwara Mayor Ram Pal Uppal told The Tribune on Wednesday that efforts are underway to resolve the issue soon and assured that the matter would be addressed soon.