Srinagar, Sep 9 : Thousands of National Health Mission (NHM) employees across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday began a 72-hour strike, pressing the Union Territory administration to address their long-pending demands, including a formal job policy, salary revision, and retirement and social security benefits.
The protest, called by the Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA), witnessed large-scale participation of healthcare workers at all district headquarters, disrupting routine services at many health facilities.
In a statement, JKNHMEA Chief Spokesperson Abdul Rauoof said the agitation was a last resort after years of inaction by the authorities. “NHM employees are the backbone of the public healthcare delivery system in J&K. Despite years of dedicated service, they are denied basic benefits like pensions, gratuity, and social security,” Rauoof said.
He listed four core demands: a comprehensive job policy for NHM employees, pay revision on par with other government healthcare staff, retirement benefits such as pension and provident fund, and social security coverage for employees and their families.
Rauoof said the association has raised these issues repeatedly through official channels but no meaningful progress has been made. “We are not against the government, but we are forced to protest when our legitimate demands are ignored. We appeal to the administration to come to the table for a constructive dialogue,” he added.
The Chief Spokesperson urged all NHM employees to maintain peace and discipline during the 72-hour stir, which is scheduled to continue until September 12. He also appealed to the public for understanding, saying the strike is aimed at securing a dignified future for those who serve the people.
“The government must realize that a motivated and secure workforce is essential for a robust healthcare system. We hope they will respond positively and resolve our issues within a reasonable timeframe,” Rauoof said.
The JKNHMEA, which is affiliated with the Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC), has warned of intensifying the agitation if their demands remain unaddressed.
The 72-hour strike will continue across all district headquarters of Jammu and Kashmir as decided by the association’s UT-Level Coordination Committee, the statement added. (KNS)
