Govt School Workers & Cooks in Karnah Protest for Fair Wages, demands Justice

"Workers Decry Meager ₹2,513 in Two Years, Demand Regular Salaries and Job Security"

Tangdhar, Karnah: Contingent paid workers and cooks employed in government schools under various schemes staged a peaceful protest at Chinar Park, Tangdhar, in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, demanding fair wages and job security. The workers, who have been serving for decades, expressed outrage over receiving a mere ₹2,513 in two years, despite working on par with regular employees.

"We have been tirelessly working in schools, ensuring smooth operations and meals for students, yet we remain neglected. The government acquired our land with the promise of employment, but today, we are struggling for survival," said one of the protesting workers.

The protesters accused successive governments of discriminating against them by failing to implement the Minimum Wages Act and ignoring their repeated pleas for salary revisions. Many of these workers, who have dedicated decades to government schools, remain deprived of financial stability, social security benefits, and permanent employment status.

"Every government assures us justice, but the reality is different. We demand immediate action to regularize our wages, clear pending dues, and recognize our services," another protester asserted.

The demonstration remained peaceful, but the workers warned that if their grievances are not addressed soon, they will be forced to intensify their agitation. They urged authorities to fulfill their commitments and ensure that those who serve the education sector with dedication are not left in financial distress.

The protest highlights the broader issue of labor rights in government institutions, calling for urgent intervention to uphold dignity and fairness in employment.