Government employees and trade unions across Haryana have announced their participation in the nationwide protest. 'Bharat Bandh', scheduled for February 16. The coordinated efforts between protesting farmers, trade unions and government employees seek to press for various demands including the revocation of the old pension scheme, the formation of an 8th pay commission, the initiation of recruitment drives for permanent positions, and the regularisation of contractual employees.
Bharat Bandh: Support from State Unions
The decision to join the protest was spearheaded by prominent trade unions such as the Centre for Indian Trade Union (CITU) Haryana, Hind Majdoor Sabha (HMS), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), and United Trade Union Congress (UTUC). Additionally, farm unions, in collaboration with central trade unions and Samyukta Kisan Sabha (SKS), have galvanised support for the Gramin Bharat Bandh.
Sarv Karmchari Sangh Joins the Fray
Adding to the chorus of demands, the government staffers' union, Sarv Karmchari Sangh, has pledged its support to the cause. This unified front underscores the widespread discontent among various sectors of society regarding government policies and practices.
Sector-specific Grievances Amplify the Protest
The agitation is further fueled by sector-specific grievances. Haryana Roadways employees, represented by the Haryana Roadways Employees Sanjha Morcha, have denounced the government's apathy towards their demands. Central to their protest is the objection to new penal provisions related to hit-and-run cases, salary increments, and the reinstatement of the old pension scheme.
Calls for Systemic Changes
Government employees in the state are not only advocating for their rights but are also demanding systemic changes. They seek the dissolution of the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam, urging regular recruitment drives instead of the current practice of outsourcing through Nigam. Additionally, concerns over job security and inadequate remuneration for contractual employees remain at the forefront of their demands.
