National Health Mission (NHM) employees in Assam have opposed salary deductions imposed for participating in protests, with staff warning of renewed agitation from New Year. The issue surfaced in December after pay cuts linked to demonstrations held in October and November, raising concerns over wages and job security.
What changed in NHM salary action
Authorities of National Health Mission Assam ordered salary deductions for employees who joined protests across districts. The deductions followed demonstrations held on October 29 and on November 3, 4, and 5.
The order applied the “no work, no pay” rule. The directive allowed pay cuts of up to seven days. December salaries reflected these deductions.
Why NHM employees are protesting
NHM employees have protested since October. Their demands include equal pay for equal work, stronger service protections and also seek a structured pay scale.
The protests disrupted health services in parts of the state for several days. The state government issued warnings after staff skipped duties during mega health camps.
Impact on NHM workforce in Assam
Around 22,000 NHM employees face the impact of the pay cuts. This group includes doctors, nurses, and technical and non-technical staff.
At a press conference in Guwahati on Wednesday, the All Assam Health & Technical Welfare Association, NHM, Assam, said it would resume agitation if wages are not reimbursed. Organising secretary Debajit Deka said employees lost three full days of salary for joining democratic protests.
Demands raised by NHM association
The association reiterated its demand for implementing a uniform pay scale. It cited salary protection and the Supreme Court’s 2013 verdict on equal pay.
The group also demanded full enforcement of the Assam Gazette Notification, 2021. This includes pension, gratuity, death benefits, and service records similar to state government staff.
What happens next
Association president Dr Rupam Choudhury called for direct appointment of NHM employees to vacant health department posts. He also urged the creation of new posts in upcoming healthcare institutions.
National Health Mission authorities have not announced any revision to the pay cut order so far.
