‘No work, no pay’: Punjab toughens stand as employees extend strike

The Punjab government has implemented a "no work, no pay" policy for employees who participated in a strike over unpaid dearness allowance (DA) and other demands. The protest, which began on August 27, has extended until September 11. Government offices across the state are experiencing a lack of staff, affecting essential services like buses, schools, and healthcare institutions, although critical services remain operational.

Chief Secretary KAP Sinha has directed employees to be paid only for the days they work, with their salaries being deducted for the time they are absent. The protesting employees demand the payment of their pending DA dues and an end to disciplinary actions taken against them. Their union, the Punjab Sanjha Mulazam Manch, has called off the strike until their demands are met.

The government, on the other hand, remains firm on the DA arrears being a matter for the Supreme Court and cites its financial constraints as a reason not to pay the arrears immediately. Despite repeated appeals, the employees have continued with their strike, with some even planning to gherao (block) ministers. The standoff has also inconvenienced the public, with many having to return empty-handed from their visits to government offices.