Mechanical Irrigation Employees Federation holds crucial meeting

• Veteran Trade Union leader & EJAC Vice President Farooq Ahmad Khan’s leadership lauded; resignation rejected: MIEF General Secretary
  

SRINAGAR: The Mechanical Irrigation Employees Federation convened an important meeting in Srinagar to appreciate the contributions of the federation's Patron and Veteran Trade Union Leader & EJAC Vice President, Farooq Ahmad Khan. The meeting also deliberated on his recently submitted resignation. Attendees included union leaders, members, and district presidents from across the region.

During the meeting, Farooq Ahmad Khan expressed his desire to resign due to health issues and personal concerns. However, the federation’s executive body unanimously rejected his resignation, urging him to continue his leadership. General Secretary Farooq Ahmad Shalmari remarked, “Farooq Ahmad Khan’s leadership is our greatest strength. Under his guidance, we have witnessed landmark achievements, including the implementation of the 6th and 7th Pay Commissions, extension of retirement age, and protection of employees’ rights. His leadership symbolizes unity and strength for the federation, and we cannot allow him to step down.”

Participants also highlighted Farooq Khan’s pivotal role in eradicating long-standing issues within the department. “In the past, employees were often assigned personal tasks at officers’ homes, a practice that Farooq Ahmad Khan ended, enhancing the union's credibility. His record is spotless, with no allegations of corruption or wrongdoing,” they stated. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, President of the Srinagar District Unit, praised Khan’s contributions, stating, “Under his leadership, the union has achieved historic milestones. His integrity, dedication, and honesty have kept us united. Without him, we feel incomplete.”

Addressing the gathering, EJAC Vice President Farooq Ahmad Khan has expressed gratitude for the members’ trust, stating, “I have always served the employees with honesty and sincerity. Improving the work culture has been a priority and I have never compromised on this. Employees who earn salaries must perform their duties responsibly. I urge everyone to remain united and strengthen the union to protect employees’ rights.”

The meeting also discussed other issues of employees particularly the regularization of seasonal and daily wagers workers. urged the government to take immediate steps to address these concerns. Key attendees included Bilal Ahmad Khan (Federation President), Naseer Ahmad Nahvi (Vice President), Farooq Ahmad Malik (Chief Spokesperson), Shabir Ahmad Malik (President, Shopian District), Mohammad Shafi (President, Pulwama District), Riaz Ahmad Sofi (President, Bandipora District), Farhat Rasool (Federation Secretary), Shabir Ahmad Khan (Press Secretary) and several others. The meeting concluded with all participants reaffirming their confidence in Farooq Ahmad Khan’s leadership. They resolved to continue their struggle for employee rights and the department’s progress.