Thiruvananthapuram, 10 August (H.S.): Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday accused the UDF government of creating an atmosphere of fear among government employees in Kerala through politically motivated transfers, dismissals and alleged intimidation by organisations associated with the ruling front.
In a Facebook post, the former Chief Minister cited the death of Ashalatha Athirakuzhi, a senior clerk at the Kasaragod Collectorate, alleging that severe mental stress following a compulsory section transfer after the change of government had driven her to take her own life.
Vijayan also referred to an incident involving K V Radhamani, a senior paediatrician at Kannur Government Medical College, who allegedly suffered a heart attack after being abused and threatened by leaders of the NGO Association while on duty.
He alleged that the confrontation followed the doctor's refusal to sign a transfer order that she considered improper. Vijayan claimed that politically driven mass transfers carried out without adhering to established norms had seriously disrupted the functioning of the State's civil service.
The CPM leader also rejected Chief Minister V D Satheesan's reported claim that the previous LDF government had denied benefits to government employees. He said the former government had attempted to provide benefits despite financial constraints and had initiated salary revision by appointing the 12th Pay Revision Commission.
Vijayan accused the UDF government of adopting an anti-employee approach by proposing salary revisions only once in 10 years and withholding dearness allowance arrears, earned leave surrender benefits and assured pension.
He further alleged that around 2,800 temporary employees engaged in the digital survey had been dismissed without receiving eligible salary arrears.
Referring to dismissals involving Kudumbashree, KSRTC and teachers recruited through the Kerala Public Service Commission, Vijayan claimed job insecurity was spreading across government-linked institutions.
He called for strong protests against what he described as the UDF government's anti-worker policies and demanded an end to intimidation and politically motivated action against employees.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
