NHM employees begin 48-hour sit-in in Srinagar; MLA Sheikh Khursheed urges Govt to address grievances

Srinagar: Employees engaged under the National Health Mission (NHM) in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday began a 48-hour sit-in protest in Srinagar, seeking resolution of their longstanding demands concerning wages, job security and welfare measures.

A large number of NHM workers participated in the protest, calling for a pay revision on par with other states, formulation of a robust job policy, and provision of social security benefits including EPF, ESI, insurance and post-retirement support.

The protesting employees said that assurances from the authorities over the years have failed to yield results, prompting them to intensify their agitation.

They maintained that despite playing a critical role in healthcare delivery, particularly during crises, NHM staff continue to work under uncertain conditions with limited financial and social protection. The employees cautioned that the agitation could be intensified if their demands remain unaddressed.

The ongoing sit-in forms part of a previously announced UT-wide protest calendar by the employees’ association.

Meanwhile, Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed voiced support for the protesting employees and urged the government to take immediate steps to resolve their grievances as well as those of daily wagers.

He stressed that instead of citing financial limitations, the government should rationalise its own expenditure, including spending on protocol and official perks.

Describing the protest as a consequence of administrative inaction, Khursheed said there has been no meaningful progress on commitments such as phased regularisation of daily wagers over the past several months.

He also pointed to disparities between NHM employees in Jammu and Kashmir and their counterparts elsewhere, noting that workers in the Union Territory receive comparatively lower remuneration and fewer benefits. He called for bringing them at par with other states until a regularisation framework is implemented.

Khursheed further criticised the government’s revenue measures, alleging that the public is being subjected to increased charges and penalties.

He urged the administration to act swiftly to address the concerns of NHM employees and daily wagers to prevent further escalation of protests.