Saqib Rather
Srinagar, Feb 19: In a significant announcement in the Legislative Assembly, the government of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday said that the long-pending issue of regularisation of daily rated workers will be addressed in a phased and structured manner beginning next financial year.
security or basic benefits. He said the government was fully conscious of their struggles and committed to delivering a practical solution.
commitments.
He stressed that while financial constraints remain a critical consideration, they cannot override the government’s moral responsibility towards workers who have continued to serve various departments under difficult conditions. “For years, these workers have contributed silently to public service. We are determined to ensure them dignity and a
fair pathway to regularisation without compromising fiscal stability,” he said.
The issue of regularisation has long remained a politically sensitive matter in the Union
Territory, with employees’ unions repeatedly staging protests and successive governments facing criticism over delays and unfulfilled promises. The latest
announcement is being seen as a renewed attempt to address one of the region’s most
persistent labour concerns.
Though the government has not yet disclosed detailed guidelines, indications suggest
that the phased plan may take into account factors such as length of service, departmental requirements and financial viability. Officials said a comprehensive policy framework is expected to be outlined in the upcoming financial year.
Opposition members welcomed the announcement but maintained that its implementation would be closely watched. Political observers believe the move could have a considerable impact at the grassroots level, particularly among economically
weaker sections dependent on such employment.
With thousands of workers across departments awaiting stability and recognition, the
government’s statement has rekindled hopes, even as its execution remains the key
test in the months ahead.
