Shimla: The ongoing pen-down strike by patwaris and kanungos in Himachal Pradesh has brought revenue services to a standstill, leaving the public in distress. Citizens are making repeated visits to patwar offices, only to find locks there.
Since February 25, patwaris and kanungos have been on strike, protesting against the government’s decision to introduce a state cadre for revenue officials instead of district cadre.
With the impasse continuing, the common people are the worst affected, struggling to get essential services such as certificates, land registries, mutation (intkal), division of land (takseem), demarcation and jamabandi updates.
Land demarcations and registries delayed
The impact of the strike is evident across Himachal Pradesh, with landowners facing severe setbacks. Amit Shyan from Shoghi has been trying to get his plot demarcated for the past four days, but to no avail.
“Without demarcation, my work is at a standstill. Like me, many others are struggling. Even patwar assistants are helpless. The government must resolve this issue through dialogue,” he said.
Government firm on state cadre decision
The Himachal Pradesh government remains unmoved by the protests, insisting that the decision to implement a state cadre was taken after discussions with the patwari-kanungo association.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has repeatedly appealed to the striking employees to return to work, warning that disciplinary action could be taken if the strike persists.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s principal media adviser Naresh Chauhan said, “The government made the decision in the larger interest of the state. Many departments have been converted into state cadre. This change provides better opportunities, including promotions.
The government has already accepted most of their demands and is reviewing the remaining ones. We urge them to call off the strike.”
Transfers beyond districts a major concern for patwaris
One of the key reasons for the strike is the provision allowing the transfer of patwaris anywhere in Himachal Pradesh whereas earlier, they were restricted to their respective districts.
This has sparked resistance from patwaris, who argue that the move would disrupt their personal and professional lives. Despite the hardships faced by the public, the government remains firm on its stance, while patwaris continue to press for the rollback of the decision.
Sunil Chadha
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