Pertinently, the General Administrative Department (GAD) issued an order on Friday, imposing restrictions on government employees' participation in demonstrations and strikes to advocate for their demands, accompanied by a stern warning of strict consequences for those found involved.

In his statement issued here, Muntazir emphasised that the right to engage in a strike or protest to voice legitimate demands is a democratic entitlement for every citizen, including government employees, and every democratic and civilised society allows such protests.

He said, “In democracies, no one is barred from resorting to strikes, protests, and demonstrations to highlight genuine demands and rights, and the constitution of our country also does not prohibit such activities. Therefore, the recent order by the authorities that announced a ban on government officers and employees from going on strike or participating in demonstrations is unconstitutional.”

“The government should not deprive employees of this constitutional right,” he added.

Muntazir called upon the Lieutenant Governor (LG) to intervene in the matter and ensure the withdrawal of this “undemocratic” directive. He said, “I request LG Manoj Sinha Ji to examine this issue and ensure the “undemocratic” order restricting government employees from engaging in protests and demonstrations is taken back.”(KNS)