The state government of Haryana has delivered a significant blow to the ongoing strike of the state’s patwaris, who have been on strike for over a month now. Despite repeated negotiations, the patwaris’ refusal to return to work has left the Haryana government discontented. Consequently, the government has decided to recruit 1200 new patwaris based on contract in the state.
These new recruits will be hired through the Haryana Skill Employment Corporation. Orders have been issued to all deputy commissioners and district magistrates by the state government in this regard.
In a letter sent by the Director of Land Records, Haryana, to deputy commissioners and district magistrates, it has been stated that they should upload the demand for patwaris for their respective districts on the portal of the Haryana Skill Employment Corporation so that new recruitment can be carried out based on contracts.
Furthermore, it has been instructed to ensure that demands for patwaris for the post are sent through the portal of the Haryana Skill Employment Corporation where nodal officers are appointed.
Just two days ago, Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala, who also holds the portfolio of Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, stated that the grade pay scale of patwaris has been increased to Rs. 35,200 and there is no ambiguity for the patwaris. They can return to work soon.
After the failure of patwaris to return to work during this period, Chief Minister Manohar Lal has given permission for new recruitment based on contract to ensure the smooth functioning of the government and to alleviate the problems faced by the public.
Javir Chahal, President of the Patwari Revenue Association, has stated that officials are trying to obstruct their work. The finance secretary argues that there are legal obstacles to increasing the pay scale, whereas we believe that when orders to increase the pay scale have been issued from January 1, 2016, then the benefits should also be given from that day onwards.”