Srinagar: A peaceful protest program of the general body of J&K PHE (ITI) Workers Association was held Monday at Press Colony Srinagar.
The protest was held under the banner of EJAC led by its president Fayaz Ahmad Shabnam along with other senior leaders of EJAC.
The protest was done in favour of regularization of ITI trained workers working in the Department of Jal Shakti (PHE) from the last 14 years. The protestors were holding placards and banners in support of ITI trained workers of Jal Shakti Department (PHE) and were demanding for their regularization. They were also demanding to implement the Minimum Wages Act on the basis of skill. The protestors also stressed upon that Jal Shakti (PHE) ITI trained workers be brought under SRO – 64 or SRO – 380.
In the protest program, the plight of the ITI trained workers of Jal Shakti Department (PHE) was also highlighted and it was put forth that they are technically trained workers having valid ITI certificates and have been working under various disciplines viz., Electrician, Plumber, Fitter in the Jal Shakti Department with full dedication and without any halt or break for the last 14 years.
Addressing the media EJAC President Fayaz Ahmad Shabnam said that regularization is the genuine right of these workers. He said that the continuous neglect of the government has forced them to come out on streets and protest for their rights. He further added that the regularization of casual labourers, daily wagers and all types of temporary workers is the top priority of EJAC and no compromise will be made in this regard.
The protestors had limited their number, due to the present situation of Covid 19 and also adhered to the precautions of the health department by maintaining social distance and wearing masks.
The protestors later on tried to march forward but were detained by the police. EJAC President Fayaz Ahmad Shabnam and J&K PHE (ITI) Workers Association President Mansoor Ahmad Bhat were among the persons who were arrested from the spot but were released later.

KR Desk