The indefinite protest by Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) Employees Union entered 10th day today in Jammu, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. According to Kashmir Media Service, the protest led by Union president Qamar Din, chairman Arvind Tickoo and general secretary Ananta Koul continued at Jammu. The employees are demanding adequate budgetary support for TDC, immediate release of pending retirement benefits and remittance of Contributory Provident Fund (CPF) dues pending for nearly 52 months.

They also demanded immediate convening of Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meetings, saying no DPC has been conducted for nearly 12 years, resulting in prolonged stagnation and denial of promotional avenues. Other demands include regularization of long-serving daily wagers, particularly those who have completed more than 20 years of service, timely disbursement of salaries, and extension of Child Care Allowance, Transport Allowance and other applicable allowances at par with other employees. A major demand is immediate implementation of approved 40 per cent enhancement in Estate Accommodation Rent. The Union said the authorities must respond positively to their genuine demands.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)