Kozhikode: Even after 15 years since the introduction of the Coastal Police in Kerala, the situation for boat workers remains precarious. Positions such as boat drivers, sailors, and lascars are still being filled on a temporary contract basis. These workers receive nothing beyond their daily wages, highlighting the lack of benefits for those entrusted with the state's coastal security.

The Coastal Police force was established in response to directives from the central government following the devastating 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. Their primary responsibility is to protect Kerala's 583 km coastline from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod, ensuring a security buffer of up to 12 nautical miles off the coast.

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Currently, there are 18 coastal police stations across the state, staffed by around 120 individuals employed temporarily. Despite repeated assurances from the state’s Home Department, the promises of accident insurance, permanent appointments, and festival special batta have not materialised. Recently, two employees in Kasaragod were dismissed upon reaching the age of 50, without receiving any retirement benefits.

Low wages and temporary contracts

The wages for these workers remain low. Boat drivers receive a monthly salary of Rs 28,385, while assistants earn Rs 27,010. Special Marine Home Guards are paid Rs 19,280, and lascars, hired on a daily wage, receive Rs 645 per day. Workers can only work for a maximum of 89 consecutive days, after which their contracts must be renewed. This cycle of short-term contracts creates an unstable job environment for the workers.

Boat workers are also required to work eight-hour shifts, with an annual leave entitlement of 12 days and a festival allowance. However, many districts fail to implement these basic provisions.

Lack of accident insurance

Adding to the insecurity, these workers, who operate in potentially hazardous conditions, are not covered by accident insurance. A letter issued by the Coastal Security Additional Inspector General (AIG) on 30 August requested approval for providing accident insurance to these temporary employees. However, the government has yet to issue an order, leaving these workers unprotected.