Jal Rakshaks Clash with Police Over Demand for Better Wages

A scuffle erupted between police and 'Jal Rakshaks' near the Himachal Pradesh Assembly as the latter demanded better wages and job regularisation. The 'Jal Rakshak Mahasangh' warned of a hunger strike if their demands weren't met. Their salaries are reportedly too low to cover basic living expenses.

A scuffle broke out between police personnel and 'Jal Rakshaks' on Friday when the latter attempted to advance towards the Himachal Pradesh Assembly in session, demanding higher wages.

Hundreds of protestors gathered at the Chaura Maidan, shouting slogans against the state government for not meeting demands including job regularisation within eight years. The clash occurred as protestors tried to breach barricades set up to halt their march.

'Jal Rakshaks,' water guards managing rural water resources, are hired on a contractual basis and typically regularised after 12 years. Jal Rakshak Mahasangh President Roop Lal warned of a hunger strike if demands are ignored. Lal criticized the disparity in salary payments amid rising household expenses, urging the contract period be reduced from 12 to 8 years. He also noted that Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu had promised a minimum wage, sparking further frustration over unmet promises.

(With inputs from agencies.)