Striking employees’ march not to be allowed in Kashmir

SRINAGAR - The crisis between the Jammu and Kashmir government and its striking employees seemed headed for a showdown after the authorities vowed to foil their march to downtown Lal Chowk here Saturday.

Section 144 of the criminal procedure code prohibiting the gathering of five or more people “is in force and we have clear orders to prevent any violation”, a senior police officer told reporters here.

The employees stayed away from work for the sixth day Saturday as the government warned contractual and ad-hoc employees of dismissal unless they returned.

Public vehicles are being checked at all entry points by the police to ensure that the striking employees do not enter the city for the march.

Contingents of police are keeping vigil at traffic crossings and around the Lal Chowk.

“The crackdown proves the government’s frustration. Around 150 employees have been arrested to break our strike. We will not be cowed down,” said Khurshid Alam, president of the employees’ joint action committee (EJAC)He tried to lead a march but was arrested and other striking employees dispersed.

The protesting employees are demanding arrears as per the recommendations of the Sixth Pay Commission and the enhancement of the retirement age from the present 58 to 60 years.

Senior district and divisional level officers have been ordered to strictly monitor the attendance of employees in various offices and report to the government.

Despite fresh offer of talks by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the government employees have continued their strike, saying the proposal was only verbal and no written confirmation was received by them.