In a significant move, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the reinstatement of 10,000 Civil Defence Volunteers (CDVs) for anti-pollution duties, following directions from Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena. These volunteers, who had previously served as bus marshals, were terminated last year under a proposal by the then Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
Addressing the media on Saturday, CM Atishi confirmed that the proposal to reinstate the CDVs had been approved, and the process would begin on Monday. Atishi also strongly criticized the BJP for the termination of the marshals’ services and the halt to their salaries while they were still in their roles. Taking to social media, she stated, “The BJP snatched their jobs through its dirty politics but under the guidance of Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi government has worked to give employment to the marshals again. This proves that no matter how many conspiracies the BJP hatches, the AAP government will fight every difficulty and get the work done for the people of Delhi.”
This decision comes after LG VK Saxena directed the deployment of CDVs to assist with efforts to reduce air pollution in the city, a mandate that was announced on October 24 during a meeting of the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), which Saxena chairs. The directive stated that the deployment would last for four months, beginning on November 1.
The LG also urged the Delhi government and the Chief Minister to come up with a long-term plan to ensure the future engagement of the volunteers after the four-month period, without jeopardizing their livelihoods. Saxena’s recommendation called for a clear and structured approach so that the volunteers are not left in limbo again, as they had been previously when their employment was terminated.
The CDVs were originally hired to serve as bus marshals, helping maintain order and assist passengers in the public transport system. However, their services were abruptly ended in October 2023 following the proposal from the Delhi government, which had been supported by the BJP-led central government, triggering a political dispute over their employment. The termination left many CDVs without jobs, and their reinstatement has been welcomed by those who were affected by the sudden job loss.
The reinstatement of these marshals is seen as a response to both the growing air pollution crisis in Delhi and the political standoff between the Delhi government and the BJP. With the air quality deteriorating in the capital, the CDVs will play a crucial role in supporting the city’s anti-pollution efforts by assisting in various tasks related to pollution management and public safety.
As the Delhi government moves forward with the reinstatement, the development highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding governance, politics, and the management of the city’s environmental issues. With the support of the marshals, Delhi aims to strengthen its efforts in tackling pollution during the crucial winter months.
