Shimla, Sept 20,
The Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Privilege Committee has issued notices to the office bearers of five unions representing secretariat employees, prompting them to postpone their planned protest over deferred salaries. The employees, led by a joint action committee, have decided to take a cautious approach, avoiding direct confrontation with the government and the legislative body.
According to the committee’s in-charge, the employees were mindful of not falling into a “legislative trap” by clashing with the government while the Vidhan Sabha session was ongoing. The committee hinted that pushing ahead with the protest despite the notice from the legislative ethics committee could escalate into a larger conflict, which they wanted to avoid at this stage. The unions had earlier planned to escalate the protest after the assembly session ended but reconsidered their decision after receiving the notices.
The employees, however, warned that their decision to defer the protest did not signal an end to their grievances. They are prepared to resume action in the future if their demands remain unaddressed, posing a potential challenge to the state government. Their primary concerns are the government’s decision to delay salaries and the non-payment of employee arrears.
In addition to the secretariat unions, the pensioners’ association has also decided to defer its planned agitation over similar issues. This decision comes amid increasing concerns about the law and order situation in the state.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has maintained that there is no financial emergency in Himachal Pradesh, despite widespread discontent among government employees. He has assured that efforts are being made to curb unnecessary expenditures.
However, the employees have accused the government of reckless spending on ministers, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs), and Officers on Special Duty (OSDs). These allegations, while yet to be formally countered by the government, have gained traction among employees, further fueling discontent.
For now, the employees have chosen to hold off on protests, but tensions remain high, with the possibility of future confrontations looming.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
