Employee unions at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana conducted a protest march and observed a pen-down strike on Friday, accusing the state government of ignoring their legitimate demands. The unions also announced a protest march scheduled for July 17 in Mohali.
Unions Participating in the Strike
The strike involved multiple employee groups, including the PAU Employees Union, PAU Teachers Association, PAU Fourth Class Workers Union, PAU Pensioners and Retirees Welfare Association, and PAU Retired Teachers Association. A large number of serving and retired employees gathered at the Thapar Hall on the campus to voice their grievances.
Key Demands Raised by Employees
Addressing the gathering, Baldev Singh Walia, president of the PAU Employees Union, and HS Kingra, president of the PAU Teachers Association, outlined the primary demands. These include the release of dearness allowance on par with the central government pattern, implementation of the Old Pension Scheme, revocation of central pay scales for employees recruited after July 17, 2020, full pay during probation, revision of pensions, regularization of services, and removal of the Rs 200 development tax.
Allegations Against PAU Authorities
The protesters also criticized PAU authorities for failing to pay arrears according to revised pay scales, which were due in April and have already been disbursed in many state government departments. Additionally, they alleged that medical bills have not been reimbursed since December 31, 2025. The employees further claimed that the university is contributing only 10 per cent to the New Pension Scheme (NPS), compared to the 14 per cent contributed by the state government, violating established norms.
Warning of Intensified Protests
The union leaders warned that if their demands are not addressed promptly, they will escalate the agitation with more intense protests. The march on July 17 in Mohali is expected to draw significant participation from employees across the university.
