Hundreds of government employees under the banner of the All Government Employees Grand Alliance staged a protest outside the Civil Secretariat, demanding restoration of key financial benefits and a significant increase in salaries.
The protesters called for the reinstatement of leave encashment, pension, and gratuity, along with a 30% disparity allowance and a 50% salary hike to cope with rising living costs.
Carrying placards and banners, demonstrators chanted slogans against inflation and criticized what they described as anti-employee policies affecting government workers across Punjab.
Speaking at the rally, leaders including Khalid Sanghera, Prof Faiza Rana, and Rana Liaqat accused the provincial government of economic exploitation over the past three years.
They alleged that several financial benefits had been withdrawn and that relief measures announced in the budget were yet to be implemented, despite repeated assurances from authorities.
The speakers also criticized outsourcing policies in hospitals and educational institutions, claiming these moves have reduced service quality and led to job losses among workers.
Concerns were raised over the abolition of the regularization act, which they said has created uncertainty for contract employees working in different government departments.
Referring to recent fuel price hikes, protesters argued that inflation has worsened significantly, putting additional financial pressure on salaried individuals struggling to meet daily expenses.
They pointed out that although a 30% disparity allowance had been announced, it has not yet been implemented, increasing frustration among employees awaiting relief.
The alliance urged the government to immediately notify recommendations prepared by a committee formed by the chief secretary to address employees’ concerns.
Protest leaders warned that if their demands are not met, they will announce their next course of action in a meeting scheduled for April 20, signaling the possibility of further protests.
Also read: Govt Employees to Protest Over Privatization and Pension Reforms
