BJP-Led Thiruvananthapuram Corp Changes Haritha Karma Sena Uniform Colour to Saffron

The BJP-led administration of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has changed the traditional uniform colour of members of Haritha Karma Sena, the local body workforce engaged in door-to-door collection and segregation of household waste under the Haritha Keralam Mission.

Instead of the green coats worn by the workers since the force was formed, the corporation has distributed new uniform coats in a colour similar to saffron. The unexpected change in colour has triggered widespread criticism.

Since the Haritha Karma Sena was formed under the Haritha Keralam Mission in 2017, green coats had been their official uniform. Local media reported the members expressed that the green colour helped the public easily identify them as they went door-to-door collecting waste, and that they are unable to accept the sudden change. Some Haritha Karma Sena members alleged that the change reflects an attempt at "saffronisation" after the BJP assumed office.

The new kit distributed by the corporation includes a saffron-coloured coat, a yellow helmet, black shoes, gloves and a raincoat. Initially, many workers were reluctant to accept the new uniform and refused to receive it. However, officials in charge of the Haritha Karma Sena said they eventually accepted the kits following strict instructions from the authorities, and some have already started wearing them while on duty.

While the Mayor has said the uniform code was prescribed by the Central government and that the change was made accordingly, it is noteworthy that no such decision has been taken by other corporations.