This appeal is on behalf of Dhobi families to the community that include thousands of students, faculty members, staff, alumni, users of Institute facilities like health centre and VH2, and others, whom they have been serving diligently for over six decades. For generations they believed they were an integral part of this community.

As most of you know the Institute has given a final notice for eviction to them (see here for details). The notice declares that tomorrow on 2nd January, 2025, their water, electricity and all other utilities would be discontinued and necessary action for eviction would be undertaken.

The Dhobi families are ready to leave their present workspace and residences and seek only an appropriate alternate workspace within the campus from the Institute, basically:

A facility to wash,

A space to dry

A space to store, And

Access to it during all hours of the day

They have communicated the above in written appeal to the Institute administration. And till date they have not heard back on this.

The essential services provided by these Dhobi families is not only critical for the community but also is the primary source of livelihood of these families over three generations. Hence:

Dhobi families have decided to stay put in their present premises even if all their utilities are discontinued. They have decided to continue fighting for their livelihood.

We appeal to the community to stand by the dhobis. The time to act is NOW. For details on how to support the dhobis, please get in touch with them or us.

Hamara Manch

1st January, 2025