Sanitation worker killed in Delhi; MCD union halts auto-tipper services
New Delhi, February 16: A 27-year-old sanitation worker was stabbed to death in east Delhi's Kalyanpuri on Sunday morning, prompting the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Safai Karamchari Union to announce that small garbage collection vehicles, known as auto-tippers, will remain off the roads from Monday.
The victim, identified as Anil Kumar, was attacked around 8.15 a.m. while on duty. Police said CCTV footage showed a man in a yellow T-shirt approaching Anil from behind, grabbing his collar, and stabbing him repeatedly before walking away. Anil was rushed to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The union has demanded a permanent job for one member of Anil's family and an ex gratia payment of ₹1 crore. Union leaders said they will meet MCD Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar on Monday to press these demands. They also threatened a larger protest if their demands are not met.
Karan Singh Mahroliya, president of the union, said, “This is not the first time a sanitation worker has been beaten or killed. Violence against sanitation workers is common. Action must be taken against those responsible.” He also alleged that Anil had been called to duty on Sunday, which was his off day.
Police said an FIR has been registered under relevant sections, and the accused has been identified. Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Rajeev Kumar said, “Efforts are under way to arrest him.”
Anil's relatives and local residents staged a protest at the hospital, demanding action. The family alleged that police initially told them Anil had met with an accident. However, when they reached the spot, they noticed stab marks on his body. A family member said Anil had no known enmity with anyone.
The MCD said it would ensure compensation to the victim's family, and a representative had visited the family to convey the assurance.
Kuldeep Kumar, the Aam Aadmi Party MLA from the area, met the family and demanded compensation. He said, “Does a poor man's life hold no value in this world?” He alleged that criminals had become emboldened under the BJP rule and urged the government to take prompt action against the accused.
Sanitation workers in Delhi have repeatedly faced safety concerns, including verbal abuse, assault, and lack of protective equipment. This incident has renewed attention on their working conditions and the risks they face while performing essential municipal duties.
The suspension of auto-tipper services could affect garbage collection in several parts of the city. Residents in affected areas may face inconvenience until the union and the MCD reach an agreement.
