Manipur govt to hold talks with striking employees

Imphal, Jun 22 (UNI) Manipur government has decided to hold talks with the striking state government employees who have launched an indefinite cease work demanding a hike in pay since the last 64 days.

All Manipur Government Employees' Organisation(AMGEO) and All Manipur Trade Union Congress (AMTUC) had launched the strike demanding hike in pay and rectification of pay anomalies. The Joint Action Commitee(JAC) stuck to the demand that the retirement age be increased from the present age from 58 to 60 and to regularize the adhoc employees.

Officials said Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and the JAC leaders will meet tomorrow and discuss the various demands of the employees. The JAC had earlier announced not to hold talks with the government, however, it was resolved after government gave a formal invitation.

The employees in the Secretariat Services had also threatened to join the stir. Both sides had refused to budge from their stands.

Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi Singh had informed the employees' demands for 71 per cent DA as enjoyed by the central government employee.

Mr Singh further added that if the state government concedes to the demand of the employees an additional Rs 6.90 crores will be incurred every month. However, he assured the rectification of the pay anomalies.

The strike has severely affected most state government offices as employees abstained themselves from duties.

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