Protesting government employees and pensioners of Himachal Pradesh on Friday warned the state government that they will intensify their protest if their demands are not accepted.
A large number of state employees and pensioners, headed by Ghanshyam Sharma, national senior vice president of the Indian State Pensioners Federation, held a protest at the Dharamshala Police Ground on Friday. They sharply criticised the Sukhu government’s policies.
Their demands include pending Dearness Allowance, release of salaries and pensions, timely medical bill clearance, restoration of Himcare benefits and fulfilment of OPS commitments.
Representatives from various employee and pensioner groups joined the protest. They accused the government of “failing” to keep its promises, pushing the state into “financial disorder,” and taking decisions that hurt employees.
During his address at the rally, Sharma said the government had sought the support of employees and pensioners by promising timely release of Old Pension Scheme benefits, salaries, pensions, DA and medical reimbursements. “But even after three years in power, most of these promises are still not fulfilled, and the situation is getting worse,” he alleged.
He further said despite the state’s growing debt, instalments of DA, arrears and health schemes like Himcare were being cut or delayed. He added that this was causing serious problems for retired employees who need medical treatment.
Speakers stated that the government had ignored employee-related issues during the winter session of the state Assembly.
They also flayed the decision to shift the protest venue from Zorawar Stadium to the Police Ground. They called it a sign of the government’s “panic” and “anti-employee attitude.” They warned that if no immediate decisions are taken, the agitation will be intensified with state-wide programmes to be announced soon.
“This struggle is not against any political party. It is a fight for rights, dignity and a secure future for employees and pensioners. We will not step back until justice is delivered,” Sharma said. He urged all organisations to stay united and continue the movement peacefully and with discipline.
District Kangra convener of the HP Pensioners Joint Action Committee, Ravinder Singh Rana, said this demonstration was a “historic protest” against the state government’s indifferent attitude.
He added that pensioners from all government departments, boards and corporations submitted a representation in Dharamshala. They demanded quick resolution of their long-pending issues and immediate release of dues for pensioners, family pensioners and their dependents.
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