In a major announcement that has brought much relief to the PUNBUS contractual employees, the Punjab Government has approved a 5% salary hike for the contractual drivers, conductors, and workshop staff. Notably, the decision has been taken following the sustained protests and demands of the contractual employees of Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transportation Corporation.
Demands of PUNBUS Contract Workers
Earlier this month, the contractual workers began a three-day strike in order to push the state government to take action in regard to the regularization of their jobs. Meanwhile, this revision comes into effect immediately for them, who have been battling with problems related to stagnant wages and financial pressures.
However, the salary hike will only apply to those who have completed one year of service by November 1, 2024, as per the state government’s directive issued on Wednesday.
This decision was being hailed as a victory for the PUNBUS contract workers, who have repeatedly highlighted their challenges of managing the household expenses amidst the rising inflation.
For the years, they have been urging the state government to increase their salaries. They even held multiple strikes and demonstrations to voice their grievances. Their proposal was unanimously approved at a recently held meeting, and their order has been forwarded to seven relevant departments.
“This increase is a small but significant step toward addressing the financial struggles faced by employees. While it does not resolve all issues, it shows the government is willing to listen and act,” said a senior union leader.
Some other union representatives have also expressed their cautious optimism about this development.
“The salary hike is a welcome move, but regularization of jobs remains our primary demand. We are hopeful that the upcoming meetings will result in a fair and legally sound policy,” said the other union spokesperson.
Meetings held to formulate the policy
Additionally, the meeting was held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, and was chaired by the transport minister, Laljit Singh Bhullar. The meeting reportedly resulted in an agreement to formulate a policy for making employees permanent under service regulations.
The file will be sent to the Punjab Advocate General to review the policy. Meanwhile, another round of the meeting will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, with the transport minister Bhullar and senior officials.
Another round of discussions will be held with the union on February 3, 2025. This meeting will be held to finalize the policy in accordance with legal provisions.
Kanishka Malhotra is a seasoned journalist with a deep passion for reporting and uncovering the truth. With a specialization in research and investigative Journalism, she has covered wide range of topics related to social issues, travel, lifestyle, technology, Entertainment and much more. She believes to express and share her creativity to the world through words. With relentless pursuit of knowing and uncovering the truth, Kanishka continues to leave a mark in the world of journalism.
Comments