JKNHMEA announces 48-hour sit-in protest from April 1 over ‘long-pending demands’

Srinagar: The Jammu & Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) has announced a 48-hour continuous Sit-in Protest and Strike starting from April 1, 2026, across all districts of the Union Territory. The move aims to press for the long-pending demands of NHM employees who have served under challenging conditions in the healthcare system.

Despite repeated assurances and continuous representations, core issues confronting NHM employees remain unresolved. The association has decided to adopt this peaceful yet firm democratic measure to seek justice and recognition for its workforce. Employees from across Kashmir Division will gather at Sher-i-Kashmir Park, Srinagar, which will serve as the main venue for the Sit-in Protest and Strike.

JKNHMEA has called for an immediate pay revision in line with other states and current economic realities, the formulation of a secure job policy to ensure stability and protection of livelihood, and the implementation of comprehensive social security measures, including EPF, ESI, insurance, and post-retirement benefits. The association stated these demands are directly linked to the dignity, morale, and efficiency of thousands of frontline healthcare workers.

Muneer Andrabi, President JKNHMEA Kashmir, said employees have long contributed to strengthening public healthcare but continue to face lack of fair pay and job security. He described the Sit-in Protest and Strike as a rightful assertion of their dignity and constitutional rights. Dr. Vikas Sharma, President JKNHMEA Jammu, highlighted the insecurity caused by the absence of structured job policies and fair remuneration. Altaf Bhat, Senior Vice President, called on all NHM employees to stand united, warning that continued neglect has increased frustration among the workforce.

Musadiq Rafeeq, President of the RNTCP Employees Association, extended full support, stating the issues of NHM employees are interconnected across verticals and that the protest will ensure their voices are heard. Abdul Rauoof, Chief Spokesperson JKNHMEA, reiterated that the protest would be peaceful, disciplined, and collective, urging the administration to initiate immediate dialogue and resolve the long-standing concerns.

The association called upon all NHM employees to participate actively and with discipline, emphasizing the message, “Equal Work, Equal Pay, Job Security is Our Right, Social Security is Non-Negotiable.”