Guards allege they receive only ₹7,400 despite university paying agency over ₹15,000 per guard; PF irregularities, fake attendance records surface

Security personnel at Awadhesh Pratap Singh University in Rewa staged a dharna outside the Registrar's office on Monday, alleging economic exploitation, wage irregularities and threats of termination. They were supported by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), which joined the protest and demanded immediate action.

The guards claimed that while the university pays the security agency more than ₹15,000 per guard, they receive only around ₹7,400 per month. They also alleged that Provident Fund (PF) contributions are being deposited in amounts lower than promised at the time of recruitment.

Questions raised over payment and staff count

During the protest, questions were also raised regarding the number of security personnel and the payments being made. It was alleged that while 35 to 36 security guards are currently working at the university, payments are being processed for 50 personnel. The protesters demanded a fair investigation into the matter.

"At the time of recruitment, we were assured that PF would be deposited properly. But the amounts being credited to our accounts are much less than what was promised," a security guard said.

Attendance register irregularities

The protesters also alleged that the attendance register has been tampered with. They claimed that records have been manipulated and some records are not available at all, raising serious questions about the attendance and payment process.

NSUI leaders who were present at the protest demanded a high-level inquiry into the financial irregularities and exploitation of workers. They warned that if action is not taken soon, the protest will be intensified.

Agency assures investigation

During the dharna, discussions were held with the security agency's supervisor, security officer and field in-charge. Officials said the matter has been brought to the attention of the company management. The company owner, during a telephonic conversation, assured that an investigation would be conducted and action would be taken on the wage-related complaints.

Police present at the spot assured the protesters that the complaints would be investigated and necessary action would be taken.

NSUI and the security guards have warned that if a probe is not conducted and the guilty are not punished soon, the movement will be escalated further.