India, May 3 -- Many labour unions, including Janhit Kamgar Sanghatana (Maharashtra State) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Labour Front, Pune, have raised allegations about ongoing exploitation of contractual sanitation workers at the Regional Mental Hospital (RMH), Yerawada. The unions have complained to Maharashtra health minister Prakash Abitkar seeking action on unjust treatment and financial exploitation of workers.

According to the unions, contractors have violated the Minimum Wages Act of 1947, depriving workers of their earnings. Despite monthly bills of approximately Rs.14.2 lakh cleared in favour of contractors, the sanitation staff continue to receive less than minimum wage.

Statement released from unions state that contractor B.S....