Jammu & Kashmir PDD Warns Employees Against Illegal Demonstrations

In a recent development from Jammu, the Power Development Department (PDD) has issued a stern warning to its employees against engaging in demonstrations or strikes. This directive comes in light of certain employees allegedly participating in such activities to voice assumed demands, which the department has declared as completely illegal.

The instruction circular, disseminated on Tuesday, references government directives, the Jammu & Kashmir Government Employees Conduct Rules, and a Supreme Court ruling as the basis for this prohibition. According to these guidelines, no government employee is permitted to partake in or support any form of strike related to their service or that of another government employee.

Further details provided in the circular highlight the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services Recognition of Service Association Rules, 1995. These rules not only prevent gazetted officers from forming associations but also state that recognition of already registered Service Associations may be revoked if found violating service conduct rules or failing to meet the conditions outlined in the rules.

The circular also recalls a communication from the General Administration Department issued last year. This communication had previously cautioned government employees against engaging in unnecessary demonstrations and strikes, labeling such actions as serious indiscipline and misconduct.

Quoting a Supreme Court ruling in the case titled T K Rangarajan Vs Government of Tamil Nadu, the circular emphasizes that employees have no fundamental, statutory, or moral right to strike. It mentions that there is no legal backing for strikes and that various service and conduct rules expressly forbid them. The document underscores the disruptive impact of strikes on society and the inability of government employees to use such tactics.

The circular articulates that even if employees feel they are facing injustice, they must utilize the mechanisms provided under different statutory provisions for grievance redressal. It warns that strikes are often misused, leading to chaos and complete maladministration.

In conclusion, the Power Development Department has made it clear that any employee intending to participate in or organize demonstrations or strikes will face strict legal action. This move aims to maintain discipline and ensure uninterrupted services to the public.