IIOJK: Retired coalmine workers protest in Rajouri over long-pending dues
Jammu: Retired employees and daily-wage workers associated with coal mines of the Minerals Department in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) held a protest in Kalakote area of Rajouri district, demanding the fulfilment of their long-pending demands.
The protesting retired employees and workers demanded the immediate release of their long-pending pensions, Provident Fund (PF), and other statutory retirement dues. They urged the authorities concerned to intervene immediately and ensure payment of their legitimate retirement dues.
They said prolonged delays in the payment of pensions, PF, gratuity and other dues had caused severe financial difficulties for them and their families.
Vijay Kumar Sharma, representing retired workers associated with coal mines in Metka, Mogla and Kalakote areas, said many former employees were facing financial hardships due to non-payment of their retirement benefits. He demanded the immediate release of pending PF, pensions and other statutory dues.
The protesters also sought the early settlement of pending cases concerning the legal heirs and widows of deceased mine workers. They demanded that temporary daily-wage workers and permanent employees be provided all applicable PF and pension-related benefits.
The protesters further demanded the release of pending arrears under the Sixth and Seventh Pay Commissions, along with the benefits of revised pay scales, for eligible serving and retired employees.
