PTC Web Desk: The Punjab Government has stepped up its action against employees who took part in the mass casual leave protest on August 27, directing administrative secretaries and department heads to issue show-cause notices to those who remained absent from duty.

The employees will be asked to explain why disciplinary proceedings should not be initiated against them for taking what the government has described as unauthorised leave.

The move comes just ahead of a crucial meeting of employee organisations, where unions are expected to decide their next step in the ongoing protest over several long-pending demands.

Also Read | Punjab govt employees' protest: No talks until letter by govt is withdrawn, says sanjha morcha chief Sukhchain Khaira

Also Read | Punjabi influencer Manjeet Kaur dies after nearly 2 months: family alleges abduction, assault and burning

Around four lakh Punjab Government employees reportedly took mass casual leave on August 27 as part of a statewide protest.

The agitation was organised by the Joint Action Committee of Employees and Pensioners along with other employee organisations. The protesters are demanding the release of pending Dearness Allowance (DA), restoration of the Old Pension Scheme and action on various other service-related issues.

Employee unions have described the August 27 protest as one of the biggest demonstrations by Punjab government employees in recent years.

Government had earlier sought lists of employees

The latest action follows an earlier direction from the Personnel Department. Government departments had been asked to identify employees who did not report for duty on August 27 and prepare lists of those who had allegedly taken unauthorised leave.

The decision to now issue show-cause notices signals that the government is moving towards possible disciplinary action against the employees involved.

Employee leaders oppose govt action

Employee organisations have strongly objected to the government's decision. Union leaders believe the notices are intended to put pressure on employees at a time when they are considering whether to intensify their agitation.

Sukhchain Singh Khera, convener of the Sanjha Mulazam Manch, said employees would not back down because of the government's action.

He questioned how the government could discuss concessions with employees while simultaneously threatening disciplinary proceedings against them.

Khera said employees were prepared to continue their protest and would exercise their democratic right to raise their demands.

Employee organisations are scheduled to meet on Sunday to discuss the latest developments and decide their future course of action.

The show-cause notices are likely to be one of the main issues discussed at the meeting.