Valmikis stare at bleak future

On Thursday, various parts of the city saw functions and processions to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar – the Father of the Constitution, who also fought for the rights Dalits and other socially-discriminated classes.

Residents of Valmiki Basti, near Mandir Marg in New Delhi, however, expressed their concerns over the challenges that they have been facing in the city.  Considered to be the second most populous Scheduled Caste (SC) community in the national Capital, Valmikis have a sizable presence in Keshavpuram, Pandav Nagar, Inder Puri and Valmiki Basti. 

It must be recalled that Mahatma Gandhi stayed in Valmiki Basti for 214 days and it is the place from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Swachh Bharat Mission. 

Valmikis are traditionally employed as sweepers, a stereotype profession that has tied them down over the years.

Over-dependence on government jobs, lack of job opportunities in the private sector and rising unemployment among are some of the challenges that Valmikis are staring at. 

“We do not own flats here and are only allowed to stay till we are in the service. My son is unemployed and is not getting a government job. I don’t even own a house as traditionally we are employed as sweepers. I fear we could soon be homeless,” said a resident of Valmiki Basti, requesting anonymity.

He added that since Valmikis are being employed as sweepers since time immemorial, it is imperative for their families to be given priority in government jobs. He said there remains is a lack of opportunity in the private sector.

In the absence of a stable job, many members of the community have no choice but to leave their accommodation in the Basti, which consists of 500 flats. 

Abhishek, a resident of the area who wants to become a musician, says he is not getting the right break. He is also trying for a government job, but his efforts have not paid off as of now.