[COVID Lockdown] How can domestic workers visit government centres for compensation when public transport is not available? Karnataka High Court

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday demanded how unorganised domestic workers would travel to Seva Sindhu Centres to claim compensation of Rs. 2000 at a time when public transport remains suspended due to COVID-19 lockdown. .A Division Bench of Chief Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka and Suraj Govindaraj was informed that the State government had issued an order dated 20 May 20, 2021, as per which it would pay compensation of Rs. 2000 to all unorganised workers in the State in view of financial difficulties due to lockdown imposed in the State. .The order clarified that that eligible persons would have to make an application through the Seva Sindhu Portal..Counsel appearing for the petitioner, Avani Choksi, expressed her reservations on the said decision of the government, stating that navigating through the portal is difficult..At this juncture, the government counsel informed the Court that those with no internet access may visit the centres directly..During the lockdown, it may be difficult to reach the Seva Sindhu centres when public transport is not functioning, Choksi countered..“Public transport is closed during the lockdown. How can domestic workers travel to Seva Sindhu Centres for Rs 2000 compensation under Act,” the Court too queried, finding substance in the petitioner’s argument..The Court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) petition seeking registration of domestic workers under the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, (Act) and related Rules, 2009..The Court observed that "prima facie, she (petitioner) is right in submitting it will be very difficult for domestic workers to get themselves registered on Seva Sindhu portal”..As the hearing progressed, the government advocate apprised that many workers had already registered on the app..“We are not concerned with the ones who have registered, but the ones who have not. Those who really deserve it (compensation scheme), must get it,” the Court replied..The Court, therefore, directed the State to ensure that all those who are eligible receive the benefit. .The Court was further apprised that the benefit of the government order has been extended to workers working in other states as well..The matter will be next heard on June 14.