Islamabad: In a stark display of ongoing mismanagement and neglect, a segment of Radio Pakistan employees took to the streets on Monday, locking the gates of its headquarters in a protest that led to law enforcement agencies intervening and establishing a cordon around the building.
The atmosphere was tense as union members, under the leadership of Secretary General Mohammad Ijaz, convened at the headquarters located on Constitutional Avenue, a strategic location in close proximity to the Prime Minister Secretariat and the Islamabad High Court.
The protest intensified following unsuccessful negotiations, prompting the management to request the deployment of police to maintain order.
Addressing the demonstrators, Ijaz accused the authorities of stationing police within the premises to intimidate and apprehend employees. Speakers at the demonstration shed light on the longstanding grievances of Radio Pakistan staff, exposing a pattern of systemic neglect by the government.
The employees voiced their discontent over being overlooked in the recent government-wide salary increments, including a 25% increase last year and a 20% increase this year. They also highlighted the accumulation of unpaid arrears, pensions, medical bills, and housing allowances, which had been pending for several months. The absence of promotions over the past year exacerbated their frustration.
The protesters criticized the government for its indifference towards their plight, leaving them without essential entitlements as they grappled with financial difficulties. "We demand justice for the regular employees and pensioners. This neglect has transformed Radio Pakistan into a symbol of the state's indifference," stated one of the union leaders.
As the protest persisted, a substantial presence of police, Federal Civil Service (FC), and Rangers encircled the headquarters, effectively blocking access to the Red Zone. Although no reports of violence or shelling were received, the atmosphere remained electric throughout the day.
The situation at Radio Pakistan serves as a further illustration of the government's failure to address the concerns of its workforce, particularly those employed by struggling state institutions. Critics argue that this disregard for employee welfare reflects a wider pattern of mismanagement and indifference, further eroding public trust in governmental institutions.
The employees pledged to continue their struggle until their demands for equitable wages, promotions, and timely payments were met, sending a clear message to a government that appears increasingly disconnected from the needs of its citizens.
