TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 12, 2025: In an unprecedented and deeply emotional ceremony at Bilaspur’s Bahatarai Stadium, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao washed the feet of Swachhata Didis — sanitation workers from urban bodies that excelled in the Swachh Survekshan 2024-25. The rare gesture, witnessed by thousands, left the women visibly moved, many shedding tears of joy.
The Chief Minister described the Swachhata Didis and Swachhata Commandos as “pillars of a cleaner and healthier society,” emphasising that their work goes far beyond sweeping streets — it is part of a broader campaign for social transformation. “Their dedication inspires respect and awareness in the community,” he said.
Vishrampur’s Punita Bai and Kumhari’s Ranu Devangan shared that sanitation work often carries social stigma, but being honoured in this way by the Chief Minister filled them with immense pride. “This is a true reward for our hard work and commitment,” they said, crediting public cooperation for their urban bodies’ high rankings in the cleanliness survey.
For Bilha’s Puja Rathore and Dantewada’s Wasu Raj, both with eight years of service, the ceremony marked the proudest day of their careers. Swachhata Didis Sharda Soni and Kiran Singh echoed the sentiment, expressing heartfelt gratitude to CM Sai and Dy CM Sao for elevating the dignity of their profession in the eyes of the public.
