The Telangana State Social Security Board for Unorganised Workers (TSSB), since its constitution more than two years ago, has met only thrice, prompting some members to express concerns over its functioning.
It was on March 13, 2021, that the Board was constituted. It comprises 28 members, including a Chairman, representatives of unorganised workers, those who employ unorganised workers, legislators, government officials, and civil society members. In January 2022, the government released draft rules on the Code of Social Security (Telangana State) Rules, which dealt with the TSSB as well.
“We have had only three meetings, one of which was online, and it is as if the Board is defunct,” said R. Venkat Reddy, a member of the TSSB, who is also from the MV Foundation. The first meeting, Mr Reddy said, was in connection with the constitution of the board, and the second meeting saw a disappointing turnout. “The mandate of the board is to give policy recommendations which will improve the functioning of the organisations and help unorganised sector workers,” he said, adding it appeared that there is a need to take interest in the welfare of workers and revive the TSSB.
