University of Peshawar Staff Strike Enters Third Week Amid Salary and Pension Dispute
The ongoing pen-down and work boycott strike by Class-III, Class-IV, and sanitation employees at the University of Peshawar (UoP) has now reached its third week, as workers intensify their protest against the non-payment of salaries and pensions. This prolonged action highlights deepening concerns over the university's administrative priorities and financial management practices, with employees demanding immediate resolution to their grievances.
Financial Hardship and Growing Frustration Among Workers
According to a press release issued by employee representative associations on Sunday, low-grade staff members have not received their full salaries for the month of March, while pensioners have reportedly been left without any payments so far. This delay has caused significant frustration among workers, many of whom depend on timely disbursements to cover basic living expenses such as food, rent, and utilities. The strike, which began over two weeks ago, reflects the mounting desperation as employees struggle to make ends meet amidst the financial uncertainty.
Allegations of Discrimination and Administrative Bias
In a move that has further fueled resentment, employee associations have accused the university administration of unjust and discriminatory practices. They claim that, instead of prioritizing the clearance of dues for low-income staff and pensioners, the administration has partially released salaries for employees in Grade-18 and above. This perceived inequality in treatment has intensified the protest, with workers viewing it as a clear sign of bias that undermines their rights and welfare. The associations have strongly condemned these actions, calling for transparency and fairness in financial allocations.
Demands for Immediate Action and Administrative Changes
The protesting employees have outlined specific demands to address the crisis. They are calling for the immediate payment of all pending salaries and pensions to alleviate the financial strain on affected workers. Additionally, they have demanded the removal of the current treasurer under Section 17-A of the University Act, alleging that biased decision-making has adversely impacted lower-grade employees. These demands underscore a broader call for accountability and reform within the university's administrative framework to prevent future occurrences.
Impact on University Operations and Future Concerns
The prolonged strike has begun to disrupt routine operations at the University of Peshawar, raising fears that continued unrest could further impair institutional functioning. Key services, including sanitation and administrative support, have been affected, potentially impacting students, faculty, and overall campus activities. If the standoff is not resolved promptly, there are concerns that the disruption may escalate, leading to more severe consequences for the university's academic and operational stability. Employee bodies have warned of further escalation, including a complete lockout, if their demands remain unmet, emphasizing the urgency of a swift resolution.
As the strike enters its third week, the situation remains tense, with both sides at an impasse. The outcome will likely hinge on the administration's willingness to address the financial grievances and restore trust among its workforce.
