Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has appealed to striking State Government employees to return to duty considering the plight of the common man. Baghel wrote on his Tweeter account, “Common men is facing problems due to the stoppage of works related to the needs of the people. So, I appeal to all the striking employees to return to their duties. Our Government is always ready for the welfare of the employees. The old pension scheme, which has been restored by the State Government, is an example of it. Keeping in view the financial resources of State, we have been taking decisions in the best interest of the employees and will continue to take it in future also.”

It may be mentioned that the State Government on Tuesday gave a new offer to the striking employees. If the striking employees resume their duty in the government offices by September 2, their salary will not be deducted. In this regard, General Administration Department (GAD), Government of Chhattisgarh Deputy Secretary Merry Khess on Tuesday wrote a letter to all departments, Chairman of Board of Revenue Bilaspur, all divisional commissioners, all heads of departments and collectors. First round of meeting of striking employees and the State Government was held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain at Mantralaya, Nava Raipur yesterday. But no final decision was taken in the meeting. Indefinite strike, called by the State Government employees, has entered 10th day on Wednesday. On the call of Chhattisgarh Karmachari Adhikari Federation (CKAF), the State Government employees have launched the indefinite strike in support of their two-demands- 34 per cent Dearness Allowance due from 2020 and House Rent Allowance as per the seventh pay commission from 2016. However, the State government recently announced to give 28 per cent Dearness Allowance by hiking six per cent dearness allowance. Over 100 State Government employees’ unions are extending their supports to the strike, Verma added