Shimla, August 23: Himachal Pradesh policemen have written an open letter to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressing their concerns, questioning the government’s recent decision to end their free travel in HRTC buses. In the letter, the police personnel clarified that their priority is not the restoration of free travel but the recognition and fulfilment of their constitutional rights.
The letter reflects a sense of deep disappointment among the police force. The employees emphasized that while free travel in HRTC buses is a beneficial facility, it is a mere pittance compared to the more important issues they face. They urged the government to focus on addressing their fundamental rights, which they believe have been ignored for too long.
The police personnel have highlighted that right from the beginning of their careers they are bound by strict rules as members of a disciplined force. These rules prevent them from forming unions, going on strike, or expressing their grievances publicly, including on social media. The letter emphasizes the challenges this creates, as any attempt to speak out can lead to serious consequences, including disciplinary action.
The police personnel also drew attention to inequities in the regularization process. Unlike other state employees, who are regularized within three years, police staff have to wait up to eight years for the same status. This delay, they argue, is unjust and demoralizing.
Apart from these issues, the letter also points to demanding working hours and inadequate leave policies. Unlike other government employees, who work the standard eight-hour shift and enjoy public holidays, police personnel often find themselves working round the clock, and are unable to take even the minimum 12 days of casual leave they are entitled to each year.
The letter also highlights the substandard living conditions of many police personnel. The barracks, where they are housed, lack basic amenities, such as adequate light, water and proper sanitation. The police personnel expressed that these poor conditions further add to their challenges.
Furthermore, the outdated pay structure was highlighted as a major concern. Despite the increasing demands of their duties, the police personnel are being paid as per the 12-year-old pay scale. The letter raised questions as to why their compensation has not been updated to reflect the current realities of their work.
The police personnel have appealed to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to address these concerns. They are not demanding the restoration of free HRTC travel but recognition of their constitutional rights and improvement in their working conditions. The police force expressed hope that the Chief Minister will take their concerns seriously and take steps to resolve these long-standing issues.
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