Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has taken a significant step towards enhancing the welfare of Casually Paid Labourers (CPLs) associated with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). These dedicated individuals play an integral role in the construction of vital roads in challenging and often harsh border areas.
Acknowledging Their Sacrifices
Working shoulder to shoulder with BRO personnel in adverse climatic conditions and demanding work environments, CPLs occasionally face unfortunate casualties while on government bonafide duty at BRO projects. Recognizing their sacrifices and the challenges faced by their bereaved families, Rajnath Singh has approved several welfare measures to provide them with essential support during trying times.
Preservation and Transportation of Mortal Remains
One of the significant welfare measures entails extending the existing provisions of ‘Preservation and Transportation of the Mortal Remains,’ previously available solely to General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) personnel, to CPLs. This critical provision ensures that in the event of a CPL’s demise while on government-sanctioned duty at BRO projects, their mortal remains can be preserved and transported to their native place at government expense.
Increased Funeral Expenditure
Additionally, the Defence Minister has approved an important enhancement in funeral expenditure for CPLs. The expenditure, which was previously set at Rs 1,000, has now been increased to Rs 10,000. This financial support will be shouldered by the Government, offering much-needed relief to the bereaved families during their difficult times.
Addressing a Long-standing Disparity
Until now, only GREF personnel enjoyed the facility of preserving and transporting mortal remains to their native place at government expense. This crucial support was unavailable to the CPLs working in similar challenging conditions. As a result, the financial burden of transportation often fell upon the grieving families of the deceased CPLs.
Empowering the Bereaved Families
The inability to bear the costs of airfare or road transportation for funeral arrangements placed a heavy burden on the shoulders of the deceased CPLs’ families. In many cases, this financial strain prevented the bereaved families from giving their loved ones a dignified farewell. These new welfare measures aim to alleviate this burden, allowing the next of kin and legal heirs of deceased CPLs to pay their respects through proper last rites.
A Testament to Compassion and Commitment
Rajnath Singh’s decision to extend these welfare measures to CPLs underscores his commitment to the well-being of those who serve the nation in challenging environments. These measures not only honor the sacrifices of CPLs but also provide vital support to their families during their times of need.
