Supreme Court Slams J&K Officials for Ignoring Daily Wager Rights

The Supreme Court criticized Jammu and Kashmir officials for ignoring a high court order to regularize daily wagers. Despite a 2007 mandate, officials delayed action, prompting the Court to demand strict measures. This case highlights systemic issues in the state's administration regarding workers' rights.

In a decisive move, the Supreme Court has heavily criticized the officials of Jammu and Kashmir for failing to comply with a high court order aimed at regularizing the employment status of daily wage workers. The highest judicial body called this non-compliance a 'glaring and textbook example of obstination.'

Despite a clear directive from the high court in 2007, which addressed daily wagers who served between 14 to 19 years in the rural development department, state authorities continually issued 'cryptic' and obstructive orders. This delay has been described as 'shocking and prima facie contemptuous' in a March court ruling.

The court upheld a modest Rs 25,000 fine against the authorities but suggested more stringent actions might follow depending on contempt proceedings. The problem draws attention to the ongoing challenges within the administrative and judicial framework regarding workers' rights under SRO 64 of 1994.

(With inputs from agencies.)