SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) has extended its strike across Jammu and Kashmir for another 72 hours from September 15, citing the continued pendency of its long-standing demands and the absence of a concrete, time-bound resolution.
The decision was conveyed to the Mission Director, National Health Mission, JK, in a communication issued by the Joint Coordination Committee of the association.
The association said employees would continue the agitation peacefully and within the democratic and constitutional framework. Participants have been directed to maintain discipline and uphold public order during the protest.
The employees also reiterated their willingness to hold dialogue with the government and expressed hope that meaningful and time-bound measures would be taken to address their grievances.
The communication has been forwarded to senior authorities, including the Union Ministers for Health and Family Welfare and Labour and Employment, the Lieutenant Governor of JK, the Chief Minister, and the JK ministers holding the portfolios of Health and Medical Education and Labour and Employment.
The 72-hour extension comes as the NHM employees continue their agitation, with the protest potentially affecting healthcare services, particularly in rural and remote areas where NHM personnel constitute an important part of the health workforce.
On Saturday, JK Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo urged the protesting NHM employees to call off their strike and resume their duties.
