How a city’s working class is driven to the margins and made invisible
The article highlights the systemic marginalization and 'invisibility' of the urban working class, specifically informal waste workers and cyclists, in cities like Delhi. It argues that their lack of recognition, inadequate infrastructure (like cycling networks and footpaths), and precarious working conditions are not accidental but a result of urban planning and societal attitudes that push them to the periphery. The piece emphasizes their crucial role in the city's functioning (e.g., waste management) and their demand for dignity and formal recognition in government policies.
The article highlights the systemic marginalization and 'invisibility' of the urban working class, specifically informal waste workers and cyclists, in cities like Delhi. It argues that their lack of recognition, inadequate infrastructure (like cycling networks and footpaths), and precarious working conditions are not accidental but a result of urban planning and societal attitudes that push them to the periphery. The piece emphasizes their crucial role in the city's functioning (e.g., waste management) and their demand for dignity and formal recognition in government policies.
Exam linkage
GS Paper I (Society - Urbanization, Social issues), GS Paper II (Social Justice - Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, Governance - Urban planning), GS Paper III (Indian Economy - Informal sector, Infrastructure)