Delhi HC Allows Anganwadi Workers to Have Additional Jobs: Dismisses DSSSB’s Appeal

Last Updated on October 14, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh

The Delhi High Court ruled that Anganwadi workers can take up additional employment, recognizing that their salaries are insufficient to support their families. The decision came in a case where the Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) challenged a tribunal order favoring Parmila Devi, an Anganwadi worker, whose candidature for a supervisor post was rejected due to age and overlapping work certificates.

Parmila Devi applied for the post of Supervisor Grade-II (Female) under the Department of Women and Child Development, with 25% of the seats reserved for Anganwadi workers. After passing some stages of the recruitment process, her application was rejected on grounds of being over-age and discrepancies in her work experience certificates.

Devi contested the decision before the Central Administrative Tribunal, arguing that Anganwadi workers can take additional jobs as their work is part-time. She explained the overlapping certificates, stating that she worked both as an Anganwadi worker and for an NGO during the same period. The Tribunal ruled in her favor and directed DSSSB to verify her certificates and grant her the age relaxation required.

DSSSB appealed this decision, contending that holding two jobs at the same time was not possible. However, the High Court rejected this argument, noting that Anganwadi workers are often underpaid, making it necessary for them to seek additional employment. The Court upheld the Tribunal’s order, reaffirming that Parmila Devi was eligible for the position and entitled to the age relaxation. The Delhi High Court dismissed DSSSB’s appeal, stating that Anganwadi workers can have secondary sources of income due to their low wages, and such dual employment is justified.