Navi Mumbai: On the 91st birth anniversary of Late Annasaheb Patil, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid tribute to the architect of the historic Mathadi Labour Act, which continues to safeguard the rights of Mathadi workers. Speaking at an event organized by the Maharashtra State Mathadi, Transport, and General Workers Union at the Onion-Potato Market auction house in Navi Mumbai, Deputy CM Fadnavis emphasized the enduring importance of the Mathadi Act and assured the community that their rights would remain protected under his leadership.

"Annasaheb Patil's tireless work in creating the Mathadi Labour Act has preserved the existence of Mathadi workers today”, Fadnavis stated. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to modify the law but firmly reassured the workers that any such attempts would be resisted. "The protection of Mathadi workers and their rights will never be compromised as long as I am in power," he said.

Mathadi Leader Shashikant Shinde, working president of the union, expressed gratitude for the Mathadi Act and highlighted the need for continued support. He called on the government to provide permanent housing for Mathadi workers under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and to address issues related to Mathadi workers in Nashik, where legal verdicts in their favour have yet to be implemented.

Narendra Patil, President of the Annasaheb Patil Arthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal, also raised concerns about the presence of Bangladeshi workers in the Navi Mumbai fruit market, arguing that their employment at low wages is harming the Mathadi workforce. He demanded immediate action and urged priority housing for market workers in the Prime Minister's Awas Yojana.

In response, Fadnavis reiterated his commitment to resolving these pending issues and pledged to address the housing needs of Mathadi workers in Wadala and other areas. He assured the community that their welfare would continue to be a priority, and the government would stand firm against any changes that could weaken the Mathadi Act.

During the event, 18 Mathadi workers were honoured with the prestigious Mathadi Bhushan Award for their meritorious contributions. Additionally, Deputy CM Fadnavis lauded Narendra Patil for his efforts in empowering 1,00,000 Maratha youth entrepreneurs through the Annasaheb Patil Economically Backward Development Corporation.