Jammu, 21 February (H.S.): Continuing their struggle for recruitment in LIC of India in Class 3&4 cadre, LIC employees of Jammu and Kashmir, under the banner of Northern Zone Insurance Employees’ Association, Srinagar division observed one hour walk-out strike today.

This strike was observed all over India as per the call of All India Insurance Employees’ Association. As a part of strike, massive demonstrations were held outside offices of LIC of India across Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Pawan Gupta, Divisional Secretary of the Association.

Speaking on the occasion at DO Cell Jammu, Gupta said that the staff in Class-3 & 4 cadre has considerably reduced during last seven years. In March 2017, the number of employees were 57441 and on December ending 2024, the number is 42362. Out of the 8000 Class- III vacancies notified in 2020, more than 2700 vacancies could not be filled up for various reasons.

On the other hand, the work has increased many folds. And in spite of the acute shortage in staff and increased work load, the LIC employees have been committed to the service of the policyholders. Rather than addressing the issue by way of recruitment, attempts are being made at some places to outsource the Class IV jobs altogether. However, we have to work hard to keep up with the soaring customer expectations and to retain our pre-eminent position as the insurer of choice.

“We demand of the management that the process of recruitment to Class III and IV cadres be taken up immediately in the interest of the institution and in the interest of the policy holders.

The strike also showed strong resentment over the refusal to accord recognition to AIIEA in spite of over 80% membership,” he said.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar