Kolhapur : Members of the Kolhapur District School Nutrition Food Workers Association staged a two-hour protest outside the district collector’s office on Monday, opposing the proposed central kitchen system for school midday meals and demanding better wages, improved service conditions and timely release of funds.
“Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution protect their rights. Under the central kitchen system, food could be cooked eight to 10 hours before being served, potentially affecting its nutritional value,” he said, citing concerns raised by dieticians.
Principal A B Patil, president of the association, said the workers had a constitutional right to livelihood and dignity. Association member Ramchandra Dandvate said the proposed model could compromise the quality of meals served to students. The fundamental rights of these women must be respected. High court and Supreme Court have also issued directions against dismissing employees without valid reasons and due inquiry. “Supreme Court has directed that students be served fresh, hot meals.