J&K: NHM Employees Begin 72-Hour Strike Over Pay Revision, Job Security

SRINAGAR, Sep 9: National Health Mission (NHM) employees across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday launched a 72-hour strike, seeking redressal of their demands related to pay parity, job and social security benefits.

Scores of NHM employees staged a protest across districts and blocks to deman revision of their pay structure in the line with NHM employees of other states, besides a secure job policy and implementation of social security measures such as Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), insurance cover and post-retirement support.

The employees said they had repeatedly approached the government and concerned authorities with their demands, but alleged that assurances had not translated into any concrete action.

“We have been at the forefront of healthcare delivery, particularly during emergencies, but continue to face uncertainty over wages and job security,” Rouf Ahmad, a protesting employee said.

The protesters said their demands were not limited to salary enhancement but also concerned long-term financial and employment security for thousands of workers associated with the healthcare system.

The Joint Coordination Committee of NHM employees had announced the 72-hour strike after its September 5 meeting, stating that the government had failed to provide a concrete and satisfactory response within the ultimatum period. (KNO)