Week on, revenue services paralysed in Himachal as 4,000 patwaris, kanungos remain on strike

DHARAMSHALA: More than 4,000 patwaris and kanungos in Himachal Pradesh have been on an indefinite strike since February 25, 2025, leaving revenue offices locked and thousands of people struggling for essential services.

Since February 25, 39 types of revenue services, including land records, certificates and property transactions, have remained suspended. The striking officials are protesting the recent decision of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government to convert their cadre into a state-level service.

Competitive exam aspirants facing major hurdles

Aspirants appearing for competitive exams are among the worst affected, as they are unable to obtain crucial documents such as Himachali bonafide, income, caste, OBC and landless certificates.
These are mandatory for admissions, counselling and various other processes, leading to significant delays.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has made it clear that the government would not revoke the decision. He said that patwaris and kanungos must return to work before any discussions could take place. The administration has also warned of strict action against prolonged disruptions.

Why are patwaris, kanungos protesting?

The dispute began after the government moved their cadre from a district-based system to a state-level structure, allowing transfers across Himachal Pradesh.

Previously, patwaris and kanungos could only be transferred within their respective districts. The employees argue that this change would “destabilise their working conditions and create uncertainties”.

With revenue offices shut, land mutation processes, property transactions and other essential services remain in limbo. Citizens are forced to make repeated visits to offices with no resolution in sight.

Sunil Chadha