KHNAM slams govt for failing to fully implement scheme for casual workers

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 1, 2019

SHILLONG: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has alleged that various departments and offices of the state government have failed to implement the Meghalaya Casual Worker Scheme 1996.

In a statement issued here, KHNAM state youth wing president Thomas Passah said the scheme was introduced by the government from September 16, 1996 considering the desirability of conferring benefits on muster rolls and other casual workers working in various departments and offices in view that they have been entitled to only wages and no other benefits.

“It is however, saddening to know that this scheme, which could have lift up the living standards of the workers in the state is not being implemented to its full or not being implemented at all but various departments in the state,” he said.

He said vide office memorandum dated November 8, 2017, the state government have underlined that instances have come in to light where benefits to workers as specified in the Scheme were not being implemented accordingly/properly and direction were given to all for proper implementation of the same.

According to him, these workers are the backbone of the work force in the state and it is the prime duty of the Government to ensure that such schemes are not kept in almirah of departments and office without being implemented.

Passah further alleged that most of the workers would not dare to speak up against the system, fearing dismissal from work and there are departments/office who takes advantages of the same fear.

“When we talk about lifting the society or the state as a whole in is to be understood that we need to lift from the bottom,” he said.

Meanwhile, the KHNAM has also taken a resolution to fight and ensure that justice is delivered and those violating regulation and involved in suppression are being made to pay the price.

“We have already put up complaint against few to the Labour Commission and furthermore we will be travelling from one office/department to another and report non implementation of the 1996 scheme by the office/ department to the appropriate authority, furthermore if nothing is done further necessary steps will be initiated accordingly,” he said.