That clean-up marshals are a reviled lot is no secret. These BMC helpers have often been accused of taking their jobs far too seriously, sometimes even bullying citizens into showing civic sense. A report in this paper, however, said that the recently recruited marshals, hired to fine those not wearing masks, have had to contend with abuse, humiliation and rudeness throughout the day.

While it is natural to view this as their long-overdue comeuppance, this has clearly shown up the baser side of Mumbaikars, too. The report states that most of the newer marshals are those who used to hold other jobs before. They have chosen this work in desperation and Mumbai’s attitude towards them has left them shocked.