Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Sept 8: The retired employees belonging to the All J&K Workers Union met with Member of Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Ali Khatana, and voiced their pressing concerns due to the official apathy they are facing.
The Union, led by Mushtaq Ahmad, highlighted severe challenges faced by retired employees, including financial hardship, poverty and debilitating health issues.
The members of the union expressed their grievances over the Government’s prolonged delay in disbursing various entitlements, including COLA payments dating back to 1999, arrears from the 6th Pay Commission and bonuses related to time-bound promotions.
They informed Khatana that many among them were unable to afford essential medicines due to their limited financial means, with some resorting to begging to provide for their families.
The delegation also conveyed that bills related to COLA and the 6th Pay Commission have been languishing in the civil secretariat, further exacerbating the retirees’ financial struggles.
“Despite repeated pleas and requests for the release of these funds, the government has remained unresponsive and failed to take action on their long-standing demands,” the delegation said.
Khatana, empathizing with the retirees’ plight, assured them of his unwavering support and pledged to champion their cause. He also called upon the Lieutenant Governor of J&K to address the enduring issues faced by these workers.
The delegation attending the meeting included Farooq Ahmad, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, Ghulam Ahmad, Ghulam Rasool, Surinder Chander, and Wani Ghulam Nabi.
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