Dial-100 Drivers Protest Sudden Dismissal in Raisen; Demand Reinstatement After 10 Years of Service

Drivers Allege Sudden Removal Without Notice

The agitated employees claim they have been serving in the emergency response system for over a decade, ensuring public safety even during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Many recalled how they continued to operate despite salary delays and a lack of resources.

The emergency service, previously known as Dial 100, was recently renamed to Dial 112 after the state government transferred operational control from BVG India Ltd to GVK Company. According to the drivers, this transition has resulted in their sudden termination without prior notice, while new recruits are being hired in their place.

“We have worked tirelessly for years. Now we are being discarded as if our service never mattered,” said one protesting driver.

New Criteria Sparks Controversy

One major grievance concerns new eligibility requirements introduced by the GVK Company. Protesters allege that drivers are now being asked to present 10th-grade certificates, even though they were originally recruited based on an 8th-grade qualification.

“These pilots have been performing technical tasks such as event clearance through mobile apps and Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) for years. Their experience should matter more than formal paperwork,” stated a protest leader.

Memorandum Highlights Key Demands

In their memorandum, the drivers have urged the district administration to escalate their case to higher authorities. Their primary demands include:

• Reappointment of experienced drivers who were dismissed.
• Priority for existing staff in the new recruitment process.
• Recognition of long-term service and field expertise.

The protesters warned that if their concerns are ignored, they will intensify the agitation in the coming days.

Background

The Dial-100 emergency service has been a lifeline for citizens, responding to accidents, crime scenes, and distress calls across Madhya Pradesh. With the transition to Dial 112 under a new vendor, this workforce reshuffle has sparked employment uncertainty for hundreds of long-serving drivers.