Thousands of government employees across Kerala staged a massive strike today, that is, 22 January. The employees voiced their discontent over what they allege is the denial of their rights and benefits.
Despite the state government’s imposition of a ‘dies non’ penalty, which withholds pay for unauthorised leave during the strike, the protest witnessed strong participation statewide.
In Kannur, striking employees gathered under the banner of the State Employees Trade Union Organisation (SETO), where a public meeting marked the protest’s intensity. In Kasaragod, demonstrators assembled at the Civil Station in a rally led by the Joint Council. Thiruvananthapuram saw large crowds rallying in front of the Secretariat, with employees chanting slogans against the government.
The strike, organised by the Joint Council—a coalition of groups linked to both the ruling CPI(M) and opposition parties—has united government employees and teachers. Their primary demands include abolishing the contributory pension scheme and reinstating the old pension system. Other key issues raised include initiating the 12th pay revision and shifting the Medisep medical insurance scheme under government control.
The government, in an attempt to deter the strike, issued an order declaring that any absence during the protest would be treated as ‘dies non,’ effectively denying pay for those participating. However, this measure has not dissuaded the striking employees, who remain firm in their demands.
The statewide protest underscores deep dissatisfaction among government workers, with employees calling for immediate action on their grievances. The standoff highlights a growing rift between the state administration and its workforce, as critical demands over pensions, pay revisions, and benefits take center stage.
