Security service companies in Ahmedabad societies hire guards above 60 years, flout rules

During an inspection of societies in the city, Ahmedabad Police found that several societies had employed guards above 60 years of age. This practice is set to end with the police all set to take action against the security service operators for gross negligence.

The rule states that a security guard must be physically fit and hold a valid medical certificate. However, security companies often collude with doctors to obtain fake medical certificates, using them as the basis for these unlawful appointments.

Societies too bear a responsibility. If security agencies assign elderly or physically unfit guards, the societies should insist on their replacement to ensure the safety of residents is not compromised, according to the police.

Security service companies underpay guards 

In Ahmedabad and other cities, active security agencies supply guards to societies, events, and other functions. However, most agencies exploit their guards. For example, they charge societies a monthly fee of ₹15,000 or more per guard, but pay the guards only ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 through vouchers. In this way, the guards do not receive their full salary and are exploited.

Moreover, guards are also forced to work more than 12 hours a day. Yet, due to financial constraints, most of them continue working long hours for low wages.