Authorities Foil Employees’ Protest in Srinagar Over GP Fund Arrears and DA Hike Demands

Srinagar, Jan 16: The Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) staged a protest in Srinagar on Thursday, demanding the immediate release of General Provident (GP) Fund arrears and an increase in Dearness Allowance (DA). However, the demonstration was promptly foiled by the authorities.

The protest, held at the historic Press Enclave, saw dozens of employees from various government departments assembling under the banner of EJAC. The participants carried placards and raised slogans urging the government to address their longstanding grievances. “Release our GP Fund arrears,” “Increase our DA to meet inflation,” and “Fulfill your promises,” were among the slogans chanted by the protesters.

A protesting employee talked with the Associated News Bureau, criticizing the government for failing to increase the Dearness Allowance (DA) in line with rising inflation. “Prices of essential commodities are skyrocketing, and employees are struggling to make ends meet. An increase in DA is a basic necessity to ensure that employees can sustain their families,” he added.

The protesters alleged that repeated pleas to the government had fallen on deaf ears, leaving them with no option but to take to the streets. “We have submitted numerous representations and memoranda to the concerned authorities, but there has been no concrete action. This indifference is unacceptable,” said a protesting employee.

The demonstration was, however, short-lived as a heavy contingent of police arrived at the scene to disperse the protesters. The police detained several protesters to prevent the situation from escalating further.

As the situation develops, all eyes are on the government’s next move. The employees, who form the backbone of the administration, have made it clear that they will not back down until their legitimate demands are met.