PESHAWAR: Thousands of government employees gathered outside the Provincial Assembly under the banner of the All Pakistan Government Employees Coordination Council (APGECC) to stage a peaceful yet firm protest, demanding the resolution of long-pending issues affecting various sectors of the public workforce.
The protest was fuelled by growing frustration over pay disparities, stalled promotions, contract-based employment, and controversial pension reforms. One of the protesters’ primary demands is the implementation of a 30% Disparity Reduction Allowance for provincial employees, in line with what has already been approved for federal government employees. They argue that this allowance is essential to bridge the income gap between different tiers of public sector workers and to promote fairness in public service.
Alongside salary concerns, employees voiced strong opposition to the recent pension reforms introduced by the government. They called for the complete reversal of these changes, arguing that the reforms reduce retirement benefits and compromise the financial security of employees who have dedicated decades of service to the nation. Many workers described the reforms as unjust and lacking consultation with employee representatives.
They said a comprehensive and uniform service structure is absent across various departments. Employees stressed that without a defined structure, career progression remains uncertain, leading to stagnation and demotivation. Specific attention was drawn to the Irrigation Department, where workers demanded both a service structure and time scale promotions, which they say are essential to acknowledging long-term commitment and technical expertise.
Protesters also underscored the need for a separate service structure for government drivers, arguing that their unique job responsibilities, work conditions, and extended duty hours warrant dedicated policies for career growth and benefits.
The protest saw strong representation from Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), who appealed for their professional grievances to be addressed on a priority basis. Many LHVs have been working under difficult conditions without adequate recognition or support from health authorities. Similarly, employees from the health department raised concerns about understaffing, delayed promotions, and lack of job security, demanding that their issues be resolved without further delays.
A growing section of Information Technology (IT) staff within various government departments also voiced frustration over the absence of a structured promotion policy. They pointed out that despite their critical role in digitising government services and supporting technical operations, their professional growth has been neglected. Protesters demanded a transparent and time-bound promotion system to retain skilled IT personnel.
Another major concern raised during the demonstration was the issue of contractual and temporary employment. The protesting employees called for the immediate regularisation of all contract and ad hoc staff, highlighting the instability and job insecurity faced by thousands of public workers who have been serving in temporary capacities for years.
Finally, the protestors demanded an end to the current Contributory Provident Fund (CP Fund) system, which they say places an unnecessary burden on employees. They urged the government to reinstate the General Provident Fund (GP Fund), a system they believe is more beneficial and secure for long-term savings and retirement planning.
The police resorted to a baton charge on the protesters as the main Khyber Road was blocked to give access to the people visiting Hospitals and the University. Police used tear gas and sticks to disperse the protesters. Several protesters were injured during clashes with police on the main Khyber road near the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly building.
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