MLA assaults AE, Enggs suspend field work

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, Aug 29: Engineers of the PWD (R&B) Sub-Division Bijbehara today decided to stay away from field duties in protest after an Assistant Engineer was allegedly assaulted by MLA Bijbehara Dr Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri while performing official duties.

The decision was conveyed through a representation submitted to the Executive Engineer, PWD (R&B) Division Anantnag.

The engineers said the incident had caused "serious concern, distress and a sense of insecurity" among the engineering staff of the sub-division.

"Such an incident involving an officer while discharging official responsibilities is highly unfortunate and unacceptable," the representation stated.

As a mark of protest, the engineers said they would refrain from attending field duties related to macadamisation and other works until the matter was appropriately addressed.

They also sought adequate measures to ensure the "safety, dignity and security" of officers while performing their official duties.

Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp  

"We request your goodself to kindly take cognizance of the matter and take appropriate action in accordance with the rules," the engineers said.

The representation was signed by eight engineers of the PWD (R&B) Sub-Division Bijbehara.

The proposed withdrawal from field duties could affect ongoing macadamisation and other works in the Bijbehara sub-division.

The engineers have sought action over the alleged assault and measures to ensure that officers can discharge their duties without compromising their safety and dignity.

The MLA didn't respond to the repeated phone calls of Daily Excelsior.