The ongoing dispute between Punjab government employees and the Aam Aadmi Party government has now taken a political turn, with Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon strongly backing the protesting employees.
Dhillon criticised the state government over show-cause notices reportedly issued to employees who took collective leave in support of their demands, accusing the AAP government of adopting what he described as a “dictatorial mindset.”
Dhillon questions government’s approach
Dhillon alleged that the government was attempting to shift attention from its administrative and financial shortcomings by targeting employees.
He said employees who took leave according to applicable rules to raise their legitimate demands should not be threatened with notices. According to him, the government should instead engage with employees and resolve their grievances through dialogue.
‘Employees are backbone of government functioning’
Dhillon said government employees play a crucial role in administration, education, healthcare, governance and public services.
He described the alleged “arrogant and threatening” approach towards employees as unacceptable and urged the Punjab Government to immediately return to the negotiating table.
BJP leader raises DA and arrears issue
Dhillon also claimed that Punjab employees were being denied their legitimate dues while employees of the BJP-led Central Government and other states were receiving dearness allowance on time.
Questioning the government’s spending priorities, he asked why funds were allegedly unavailable for employees’ DA, arrears and other dues while crores were being spent on publicity campaigns and other expenditures.
‘Punjab BJP stands firmly with employees’
Dhillon said the Punjab BJP would stand with employees in their fight for their rights and urged the government to ensure timely payment of DA, arrears and other legitimate dues.
He also appealed to government employees and pensioners to support the BJP in building what he termed an “employee-friendly and accountable” government in Punjab.
The allegations and claims made by Dhillon are political assertions and have not been independently verified in the information provided.