Srinagar, Feb 21: The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) has demanded regularisation of services for casual labourers, daily wagers and contractual employees across various government departments in Jammu and Kashmir. The party has reminded Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of the promises made to these workers, urging the government to take immediate steps to ensure their rights and job security.
AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi in a statement said, “For decades, casual labourers and daily wagers have been the backbone of essential services in Jammu and Kashmir. These hardworking individuals have served under precarious conditions, often risking their lives, yet they continue to face uncertainty regarding their employment. It is unacceptable that successive governments, including Omar Abdullah’s tenure, have made commitments but failed to fulfill them.”
He said during elections and in various public addresses, the National Conference, including Omar Abdullah himself, promised to ensure the regularisation of these workers. However, these commitments have remained mere words on paper, he said, adding, “It is time to turn these promises into action and grant these workers the dignity and rights they deserve.”
The AIP leader also highlighted the financial hardships these workers endure due to delayed wages. He said many casual workers are forced into debt, struggling to provide for their families while waiting months for their salaries.
“It is inhumane that thousands of workers earn a mere Rs 311 per day while their wages are often withheld for months. The government must release all pending wages immediately and implement the Minimum Wages Act without delay,” he asserted.
Reminding the National Conference of its 2024 Assembly election manifesto, the spokesperson questioned the delay in fulfilling the pledge. “The NC leadership must answer—why are these workers still waiting? Why is there no clear roadmap for their regularisation? The AIP stands firmly with these workers and demands immediate action,” he said.
