Security unsecured

BANGALORE: Eighteen-year-old Binoy Ghosh (name changed) once enjoyed solving mathematical problems at school. Securing first-class in grade 11, he wished to pursue a degree in Science. However, fate had something else in store for him.“I came to Bangalore from Orissa to meet my older brother during summer holidays two years ago. On learning that the family was facing a financial crisis, I decided to take up a job instead. My parents are quite old and I didn’t have the heart to let them fend for themselves. I really don’t know what the future holds for me,” said Binoy, who is now working as a security guard at a leading supermarket.Today, with the ever expanding IT industry and growth in the infrastructure sector, Bangalore has been attracting a lot of skilled and unskilled labour, especially from Northern and Eastern India. Coming to the city, these workers fall into the trap of working in inhospitable conditions.Citing disparity in wage rates, lack of jobs and even desperation, these workers often land up working at appalling places. City Express talks to some watchmen and security guards to find out more about their lives.Most private security personal are paid a low wage which often does not reflect the risks they endure on the job. With the constant fear of being duped by employers, watchmen often find themselves paying a heavy price for their naivety. Twenty five-year-old Sudarshan Sahu, who was duped into working around the clock without any overtime payment by his former employers, painted an appalling picture, “Initially, I was demoralised and felt betrayed. Coming all from Assam to an unknown city is an overwhelming experience, I wasn’t paid the minimum wage. I lived off friends and well wishers for more than a month. However, I soon decided to put an end to my misery and quit. I have no issues with my current job. However, sometimes I wish I could do something more with my life.”According to Shankar Naidu, general manager of Aishwarya Security Services, the workers generally come from Orissa, Bihar and Assam. And, a huge proportion of security guards belong to poor socio-economic and educational backgrounds. Most have huge families to support. “Security guards work six days a week. They don’t have any casual leave or sick leave. Moreover, they do not receive any perks or bonuses. In case anyone takes off, then we find a temporary replacement. However, frequent absentees may be fired,” Naidu added.With hopes and aspirations in their hearts, some of these workers morally justify their hardship to provide better lives for their families back home. For instance, 47-year-old Madhav Cariappa has spent 18 years of his life serving as a watchman at a bank. Today, his children are pursuing their degree at a reputed college in Madikeri. “It doesn’t matter if I have not achieved anything. As long as my children are pursuing their goals, I am happy. Someday, I hope to quit my job and return to the green fields of Madikeri,” Cariappa said.