The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has faced significant criticism for its handling of the recruitment process for civic workers in recent years, with allegations of selective hiring practices and procedural irregularities drawing widespread attention.
In particular, the BBMP’s decision to selectively hire civic workers for 4,000 posts in 2018 came under intense scrutiny and invited considerable backlash. Similarly, the attempt to fill 3,673 civic worker positions last year was marred by controversy, as objections were raised regarding the selection process, particularly from individuals who had been working on contract-basis for extended periods. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that certain officials and supervisors within the solid waste management department favoured individuals with relatively shorter tenure over those who had been serving on contract-basis for decades. This perceived bias in selection criteria has sparked discontent among long-serving contract workers and raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the recruitment process. The BBMP’s recent move to invite applications for 11,307 civic worker positions further intensifies the scrutiny on its recruitment practices. While the deadline for applications was initially set for April 15, 2024, it has been extended to May 15 due to the imposition of the model code of conduct ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Notably, the BBMP has set a maximum age limit of 55 years for candidates applying for civic worker positions, with applicants required to have completed at least two years of service either on a temporary or contract-basis. Each selected civic worker stands to earn an average monthly salary of Rs 30,000 upon regularisation. Despite these efforts, concerns persist regarding the fairness and inclusivity of the BBMP’s recruitment process, particularly in ensuring equitable opportunities for all eligible candidates. As the BBMP navigates these challenges, it faces mounting pressure to address criticisms and uphold the principles of transparency and meritocracy in its hiring procedures.
