More than one lakh clerical and ministerial employees in Punjab have launched a three-day statewide protest, disrupting routine government operations and affecting the delivery of several public services.
The agitation, led by the Punjab State Ministerial Services Union (PSMSU), began with a two-day “pen-down and computer shutdown” strike. On the third day, employees will proceed on mass casual leave and march to Chandigarh to press for their long-pending demands.
The union said discussions with the state government have not resulted in a resolution, prompting employees to intensify their protest. It has also warned that the agitation could continue beyond the planned three days if their demands remain unaddressed.
Employees participating in the strike have been instructed not to carry out any official work. The union has reportedly formed inspection teams to ensure compliance, cautioning that members found working during the protest could face disciplinary action from the organisation.
The strike is expected to significantly impact government functioning, as clerical staff handle file movement, documentation and administrative processing across departments. While senior officials will continue to attend offices, many routine services are likely to face delays.
Services related to land records, property registration, mutation, No Objection Certificates (NOCs), and the processing of caste, income and residence certificates are expected to be affected. Administrative work in transport offices, including driving licences, vehicle registrations, permits and fitness certificates, may also be disrupted.
Government hospitals and health department offices are also expected to witness delays in clerical work, including the processing of medical reimbursement claims, disability certificates and other administrative services.
Although Seva Kendras will remain open and continue accepting applications, verification and approval processes handled by clerical staff are likely to be delayed until the strike concludes.
