SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY,23 :
Senior leader of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mohd Rafique Rather, has expressed deep concern over the alarming grievances raised by the Jammu and Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) regarding their service conditions, salary structure, and job security.
In a statement issued today, Rather said that it is highly disturbing that the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was allegedly provided incomplete or misleading information about the ground realities faced by thousands of NHM employees. He emphasized that transparency before the House is fundamental in a democracy like ours, and any misrepresentation on such a critical matter undermines both institutional credibility and the morale of frontline workers.
Rafique Rather stated that NHM employees have been working in extremely adverse and uncertain conditions for the last nearly two decades. From routine healthcare delivery in far-flung and underserved areas to risking their lives during public health emergencies, including pandemics, these employees have stood as the backbone of the healthcare system in Jammu & Kashmir. Despite their invaluable service, they continue to suffer due to the absence of a clear and comprehensive job policy.
He noted with concern that the lack of service security has cast a dark shadow over their future. “For 20 years, these dedicated health workers have served tirelessly, yet they remain without a structured job policy ensuring continuity of service, regularization prospects, and social security benefits. This prolonged uncertainty is not only unjust but demoralizing,” Rather said.
Highlighting the issue of meager salaries, the PDP leader termed it a glaring injustice that NHM employees in Jammu & Kashmir are paid significantly less compared to their counterparts elsewhere, despite performing the same duties and often under more challenging circumstances. He asserted that financial disparity and policy neglect cannot be the foundation of a robust public healthcare system.
Rafique Rather urged Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health Minister Sakina Itoo to personally intervene in the matter and initiate a transparent, time-bound review of the facts presented before the Assembly. He demanded an immediate rationalization of salaries and the formulation of a comprehensive job policy that guarantees job security, dignity, and fair compensation to NHM employees.
He further stated that the concerns raised by JKNHMEA are legitimate and deserve serious attention rather than procedural delays. “A healthcare system cannot thrive on contractual uncertainty and financial injustice. Sustainable health outcomes require motivated and secure human resources,” he added.
Expressing solidarity with the aggrieved employees, Rather said the PDP stands firmly with their just and democratic demands. He appealed to the government to resolve the matter through dialogue and policy reform to avoid any Union Territory-wide agitation, which could impact public health services.
“The issue is not political; it is about dignity, justice, and fairness for thousands of families who have devoted their lives to serving society. The government must act responsibly and ensure that these health workers are not compelled to take to the streets for their fundamental rights,” Rather concluded.