SRINAGAR, Mar 13: Even as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches and the holy month of Ramadan is underway, employees working under the National Health Mission in J&K today said they have been without salaries for the last three months, pushing many families into severe financial distress.
The Joint Coordination Committee of the J&K National Health Mission Employees Association warned that NHM employees will stage a mass protest at Sher-e-Kashmir Park here on March 16 if the Government fails to release their pending salaries across the Union Territory.
Association members told Excelsior said the continued delay in salary payments has placed employees under immense financial strain, particularly during Ramadan when household expenses increase ahead of Eid.
Divisional President Kashmir, Muneer Andrabi, said NHM employees have consistently served the health sector with dedication but are being deprived of their rightful wages.
“Ramadan is underway and Eid is approaching, yet employees are still without salaries. If the Government fails to release the pending wages immediately, NHM employees will be compelled to intensify their protest,” he said.
Divisional President Jammu, Dr Vikas Sharma, said the patience of employees has reached its limit as repeated assurances from authorities have not translated into action.
“Despite several promises, salaries remain unpaid. The Government must take urgent steps to release the dues and prevent the situation from escalating,” he said.
Senior vice president Kashmir Altaf Bhat termed the situation unfortunate, saying employees who form the backbone of healthcare services are facing uncertainty and financial hardship.
“Many workers are struggling to meet their household expenses during this sacred month of Ramadan,” he said.
Chief Spokesperson Kashmir Division Abdul Rauoof said salaries were the legitimate right of employees and not a favour.
“Salary is not charity-it is our legitimate and constitutional right. If the Government fails to clear the pending salaries immediately, NHM employees will stage a massive protest at Sher-e-Kashmir Park on March 16. Employees cannot celebrate Eid without salaries,” he said.
The Joint Coordination Committee, however, expressed hope that the Government will take immediate steps to clear the dues so that employees can observe Eid-ul-Fitr with dignity and peace.
