State government employees from across India are set to hold a massive Parliament March on 11 April, 2025. The protest aims to oppose the Central government’s privatisation policies and draw attention to long-standing issues, including the disparity in benefits compared to Central government employees.
The decision to organise the march was finalised during a two-day meeting of the All India State Government Employees Confederation, held on 5 and 6 January, 2025, at Mukesh Gupta Bhavan in Kolkata. The event brought together representatives from various states to discuss common grievances and plan the nationwide protest.
One of the key issues highlighted is the challenges faced by employees under the new pension scheme, which replaced the earlier system. State government employees, particularly teachers, have expressed concerns about the lack of financial security and benefits that their Central government counterparts continue to enjoy.
The Confederation also raised objections to the Central government’s privatisation policies, arguing that they adversely affect not only state employees but also ordinary citizens and students. The policies are seen as contributing to a broader socio-economic crisis, impacting multiple sections of society.
Specific concerns from Manipur were also discussed during the meeting. State employees in the region face difficulties attending work due to ongoing local crises, further compounding their challenges. Trade unions and employee organisations from Manipur have confirmed their active participation in the upcoming protest, emphasising solidarity with workers nationwide.
The Parliament March aims to spotlight inequities faced by state government employees and urge policymakers to address these issues. Organisers are calling for a fairer pension system, equitable benefits, and a re-evaluation of privatisation policies to safeguard the welfare of workers and the public.