PDP protests in Anantnag, Pulwama over alleged outsourcing of government jobs
Party alleges backdoor appointments, seeks independent probe into recruitment process
Pulwama:The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday staged protests in south Kashmir’s Anantnag and Pulwama districts against the alleged outsourcing of government jobs and backdoor appointments, accusing the National Conference-led government of failing to fulfil its promises of providing transparent employment opportunities to the youth.
The demonstrations were led by senior party leaders, who alleged that the government’s recruitment process lacked transparency and merit, and demanded an impartial investigation into the allegations of irregularities in government appointments.
In Anantnag, PDP workers led by party spokesperson Najam-Us-Saqib marched from Wazir Bagh, raising slogans against the government over the alleged outsourcing of government jobs and irregularities in recruitment. The protesters attempted to move towards the town centre but were stopped by police, who prevented the rally from proceeding further.
Addressing reporters during the protest, Najam-Us-Saqib alleged that the present government had failed to meet public expectations on several fronts, particularly on the issue of employment.
He claimed that thousands of government posts had allegedly been filled without proper advertisements, official notifications or a transparent selection process, thereby compromising the principle of merit. He demanded either a high-level administrative inquiry or a court-monitored investigation into the alleged outsourcing and backdoor recruitment to establish the facts and ensure accountability. He said those found responsible, if any irregularities are established, should face action in accordance with the law.
A similar protest was organised by the PDP in Pulwama, where party workers gathered at the district office under the leadership of District President Ghulam Mohammad Mir, senior leader Advocate Bilal Ahmad, and Youth President Muzamil Manzoor.
Holding placards reading “Jobs Not For Sale,” the protesters raised slogans against the government and attempted to march towards the main road. However, police stopped the procession, citing the absence of prior permission.
Speaking on the occasion, Ghulam Mohammad Mir said the issue of outsourcing government jobs had created widespread concern among unemployed youth. He urged the government to clearly explain its policy on recruitment and ensure that deserving and qualified candidates are provided equal opportunities through a transparent process.
Advocate Bilal Ahmad alleged that the outsourcing of jobs was “not merely a scheme but a major scandal.” He demanded an independent and impartial investigation into all pending cases related to recruitment irregularities, including those before the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), so that any wrongdoing could be thoroughly examined and those responsible held accountable under the law.
PDP Youth leader Muzamil Manzoor alleged that government jobs were being distributed through outsourcing for political and personal considerations while educated youth continued to struggle with unemployment. He said such practices were increasing frustration among young people and called upon the government to restore transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.
The PDP leaders asserted that their protests would continue until the government clarifies its position on the alleged outsourcing of jobs, addresses concerns over backdoor appointments, and orders a transparent investigation into the recruitment process. They said safeguarding merit and restoring the confidence of unemployed youth should remain the government’s top priority.
Meanwhile, NC has rejected the claims of the PDP and alleged that PDP has given jobs during their tenure to their relatives only.
