Himachal Assembly Passes Bill Denying Seniority and Benefits to Contract Employees

Shimla Dec 20

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed the **Himachal Pradesh Government Employees Recruitment and Service Conditions Bill** amidst opposition protests. The bill clarifies that contract service tenure will not count towards seniority or financial benefits equal to regular employees.

During the debate, BJP MLA Trilok Jamwal criticized the retrospective implementation of the amendment affecting employees hired on contracts after December 12, 2003. He urged the government to reconsider its stance, as the move might demoralize contract employees.

MLA Jeet Ram Katwal emphasized the critical role of government employees in state development and called for sensitivity on the issue. Similarly, MLA Randhir Sharma pointed out that contract employees are appointed through competitive exams and termed the bill as anti-employee.

Opposition MLAs argued for prospective implementation or withdrawal of the bill, citing potential employee dissatisfaction and legal complexities.

The bill, introduced to mitigate financial burdens and ensure clarity in employee service conditions, was passed by voice vote.