Srinagar, Apr 1 : Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed on Wednesday called on the government to cut down on its own expenditures, including protocol, official accommodations, and additional perks, instead of citing a lack of funds.
He made the remarks while reacting to the 48-hour strike by National Health Mission employees in Jammu and Kashmir over pending demands.
Talking to media MLA Khursheed as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said the protest has become inevitable as the government has failed to act on its promises, particularly on phased regularisation of daily wagers. He said there has been no visible progress on the ground even after more than one and a half years.
He questioned whether even 20 to 30 percent of daily wagers had been regularised so far, adding that any tangible progress could have helped in persuading employees to avoid protests.
Terming the delay a “time-buound process,” he said workers have been left with no option but to take to the streets.
The MLA also flagged disparities faced by NHM employees in Jammu and Kashmir compared to their counterparts in other states, stating that they receive lower wages, honorariums, and fewer facilities.
He demanded that NHM employees in the Union Territory be brought at par with those in other states, at least until regularisation is implemented, and called for more flexible duty rosters.
Criticising the government’s revenue measures, Khursheed said the public is being burdened through electricity charges, water supply cuts, and frequent traffic challans, even affecting those who have cleared their dues.
He urged the administration to immediately address the concerns of daily wagers and NHM employees to prevent further escalation of protests. (KNS)
