Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo has appealed to the National Health Mission (NHM) employees to end their ongoing strike, assuring them that the government is actively examining their demands. The appeal comes amidst a strike by NHM employees who are advocating for various long-pending issues, including job security, pay revision, and social security benefits.
Government Examining Demands, Minister Urges Resumption of Duties
Minister Itoo stated that the government acknowledges the genuine concerns of the NHM employees and is committed to addressing them. She highlighted that the matter has been moved through the government machinery and is currently with the Finance Department, with clarifications already furnished. Itoo urged the striking employees to have faith in the government’s process and return to work, emphasizing that the strike’s continuation is impacting patient care.
NHM Employees’ Grievances and Demands
The NHM employees, numbering over 12,000 across Jammu and Kashmir, have been on strike pressing for a comprehensive job policy, immediate pay revision, social security and retirement benefits, and the extension of EPF benefits. They are also seeking payment parity and loyalty benefits. This strike follows a similar 48-hour action in April, which was called off after assurances from Minister Itoo. The employees cite their long service, with many having worked for nearly 18 years without a regularisation or job-security framework.
Context of Previous Strikes and Assurances
In early April, a 48-hour strike by NHM employees was called off after Minister Itoo met with their representatives and assured a detailed review of their demands. During that meeting, the Minister acknowledged the significant role of NHM employees and termed their issues as genuine, promising a review meeting to work towards their resolution. Despite these assurances, the employees have now resorted to further agitation, indicating that progress on their demands has been insufficient.
Government’s Stance and Future Action
Minister Itoo has reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the grievances in a phased and practical manner, emphasizing that the welfare of healthcare workers is a priority. She stressed the importance of constructive engagement between the administration and employee representatives to build a responsive healthcare system. The Minister also noted that the issue of medical interns’ stipend hike, which had also led to a strike, was under process with the Finance Department, and similar attention is being given to the NHM employees’ demands.
The NHM employees’ association has expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of resolution, noting that despite numerous meetings and assurances, tangible action remains elusive. They are urging the government to translate assurances into concrete steps, warning of potential escalation if their demands are not met within a reasonable timeframe. The strike has led to disruptions in healthcare services across the Union Territory.
The Chenab Times News Desk