In a significant show of strength, representatives from numerous employee organisations across Punjab convened for a state-level convention in Moga on Saturday. The gathering served as a platform to voice a series of long-standing demands directed at the state government, with a primary focus on financial justice and parity.
Core Demands: Pay Scales and Pension Scheme Revival
The leaders of the employee unions presented a unified charter of demands. A central grievance highlighted that employees who entered government service after July 17, 2020, have been denied proper pay scales. The unions are adamant that these individuals must be brought under the ambit of the 6th Pay Commission and receive all benefits equivalent to regular employees.
Another critical issue raised was the non-implementation of the old pension scheme. Union sources pointed out that while the state government issued an order to revive the scheme on November 18, 2022, it remains unimplemented on the ground. Consequently, employees recruited after 2004 continue to be excluded from the old pension scheme's benefits.
Pending Allowances and Disparity with Centre
The convention also brought to light significant financial disparities affecting the workforce. A major point of contention is the dearness allowance (DA), where Punjab government employees reportedly receive 16% less than their counterparts in central government services. Alarmingly, union representatives stated that for the entirety of 2025, not a single instalment of DA has been released—a situation described as unprecedented.
Beyond DA, the employee bodies are pushing for the immediate release of pending instalments for rural allowance and border area allowance. They also demand the revival of the assured career progression scheme, which is crucial for employee advancement.
Protest March and Escalation Plans
Following the conclusion of the convention, the momentum translated into direct action. Members of the participating organisations took out a spirited protest march through Moga. To formalise their demands, they submitted a detailed charter to the district administration, addressed to the Chief Minister.
Demonstrating their resolve to escalate the movement, the union leaders announced plans for a larger gathering. A state-level rally has been scheduled for February 15 in Sangrur, indicating that the pressure on the state government is set to intensify unless their demands are addressed promptly.
