Mysuru: Karnataka State Wildlife Daily Wagers and Contract Workers’ Association, which was formed to fight for rights and job security, is demanding that the forest department ensure their security, as agencies have neglected them. The association members planned to hold a protest in the Bandipur Tiger Reserve forest if their demands were not met before March.According to workers, they worked in anti-poaching camps under life-threatening conditions for 24 hours, yet were paid only for eight hours. Many of them served the department for five to 25 years, but were handed over to agencies without their consent. Earlier, salaries were paid directly by the department for 30 days a month, but since 2017-18, payment was restricted to eight hours with no shift system or fixed monthly wage, the association stated.When injuries, illness, or disability occur, neither the department nor contractors takes responsibility. Despite thousands of vacancies, essential posts like drivers and clerical staff remain unfilled, affecting wildlife protection and conflict management. Many employees die or suffer from disability in service, yet receive no support.Therefore, the association decided to press for their demands to draw the attention of the govt and forest department higher-ups by holding a protest.
