ibn sultan
Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mohd Rafique Rather, has strongly urged the government to ensure the immediate release of salaries for all categories of employees, including regular staff, daily wagers, adhoc, and temporary workers, on the eve of Eid.
In a statement issued today, Rafique Rather emphasized that Eid is not merely a festival but a symbol of sacrifices, joy, compassion, and togetherness, and it becomes the collective responsibility of the administration to ensure that every household is able to celebrate it with dignity. He expressed serious concern over the persistent delay in disbursement of wages and salaries, particularly affecting the most vulnerable sections of the workforce.
“Daily wagers, ad hoc, and temporary employees are already struggling due to economic uncertainties. Denying them their rightful wages at such a crucial time adds to their hardships and deprives their families of even basic festive happiness,” Rather said.
He further added that on this Eid, many families incur additional expenses as they bring sacrificial animals, making it even more essential for employees to have access to their salaries in time. “This occasion involves significant financial commitments, and any delay in wages puts an undue burden on already strained households,” he noted.
Rafiqur Rather stated that there has been a long-standing precedent in Jammu and Kashmir where salaries of government employees are released ahead of Eid to facilitate smooth celebrations. “This practice reflects administrative sensitivity and people-centric governance. Any deviation from this tradition sends a discouraging signal to thousands of families dependent on these earnings,” he added.
Rather underscored that timely payment of salaries is not a privilege but a fundamental right of every employee, and any delay, especially during major religious occasions, is unjustified. He called upon the government to act swiftly and prioritize the release of pending wages without any further delay.
Highlighting the plight of daily wagers and temporary staff, he said that these workers form the backbone of many essential services yet remain the most neglected when it comes to financial security. “The government must recognize their contribution and ensure they are treated with fairness and respect,” he asserted.
Rather also appealed to the concerned departments and finance authorities to expedite all necessary procedures so that salaries are credited well in time, allowing employees and their families to celebrate Eid without financial stress.
“Eid teaches us empathy and sharing. The government must rise to the occasion and ensure that no family is left behind due to administrative lapses,” he concluded.
