DELAYED notification regarding minimum salary increase reflects the insensitivity of authorities concerned towards the struggles of low-wage earners. The announcement by the federal government the other day, regarding Rs 32,000 per month minimum salary for civil employees, five months after the budget, serves as a stark reminder of this apathy. It is disheartening that the notification was not promptly issued following the budget’s passage, leaving countless employees in a state of uncertainty and financial strain.
Now as the notification has been issued, it is also important that the government ensures the seamless implementation of the minimum wage across all its departments. It is disconcerting to learn that there are still several departments where the minimum wage has not been enforced, and instances of some employees receiving a meagre salary of fifteen to eighteen thousand rupees persist within the public sector. This glaring disparity in wages not only breeds discontent among the workforce but also undermines the principles of fair remuneration. Additionally, a thirty to thirty-five percent increase in employee salaries was announced in the current budget but numerous departments are yet to receive this well-deserved augmentation. Already the price hike has broken the back of the people and the worst sufferers indeed are the salaried class. It is critical for the government to ensure that the employees of all departments get this increase. Ensuring that the salary increases are comprehensive and promptly implemented across all departments will provide much needed relief to the employees, enabling them to meet their basic needs and secure a decent standard of living. This will increase their satisfaction level and also improve their performance. It is also high time to address the prevalent discontent among employees over the unequal distribution of salary packages across various departments. Introducing a uniform salary package would not only foster a sense of equality but also enhance the overall efficiency and morale within the workforce. Such a move would contribute to the establishment of a more transparent and just system, ultimately promoting better governance.
