18 Feb, 2013 08:13 PM

DoPT issues warning against strike; wage cut and disciplinary action to be taken

As the union are in full swing preparation for the two day strike on 20th and 21st February,2013, the government has started its part. A warning has been issued to the employees of "consequences" including deduction in wages and disciplinary action if they take part in the strike.

Meanwhile the Prime Minister has appealed to the Central Trade Unions asking to withdraw their call for a countrywide General Strike. (Read : Prime Minister's Appeal to Central Trade Unions)

Incidentally one of the points in the charter of demands is the right to strike a legal and fundamental right of the Government employees on par with the other section of the working class.

The Department of Personnel and Training has written to secretaries of all central government ministries not to sanction any kind of leave to employees during the period of the proposed strike. The departments has also been asked to make a report indicating the number of employees who take part in the proposed strike and convey it to the DoPTon the evening of the same day.

"Any employee going on strike in any form would face the consequences which, besides deduction of wages, may also include appropriate disciplinary action," the DoPT said.

The instructions issued by the DoPT prohibit a government servant from participating in any form of strike including mass casual leave, go-slow etc. or any action that abet any form of strike in violation of Rule of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964.

The Supreme Court has also agreed in several judgements that going on a strike is a grave misconduct under the Conduct Rules and that misconduct by the government employees is required to be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Protesting against government's "inaction" on price rise and alleged violation of labour laws, 11 Central trade unions and workers' federation have called for a two-day nationwide strike on February 20 and 21. (Read : February Strike : Charter of demands)