Key Facts
Mid-day meal workers across Himachal Pradesh went on strike on June 22, 2026, under the banner of the CITU-affiliated Mid-Day Meal Workers Union. The workers are rallying from Tollund to the Secretariat in Shimla to press for their demands.
Details of the Strike
The union announced the strike on June 21, citing years of neglect by both state and central governments. Workers accuse the central government of not increasing their wages for 17 years, making it difficult to manage household expenses. They also allege exploitation by the central government.
Union leader Jagat Ram stated that the rally will start from Tollund and proceed to the Secretariat, where workers will stage a demonstration.
Demands of the Workers
- Monthly salary of Rs 7,000, on par with Haryana's mid-day meal workers.
- Implementation of the Himachal Pradesh High Court order for 12 months' salary instead of the current 10 months.
- Payment of salaries without delays (currently three months pending).
- Provision of gratuity and pension upon retirement.
- Compensation for cooking during election duties.
- Weekly holidays and other basic benefits.
Impact and Reactions
The strike is expected to disrupt mid-day meal services in schools across the state. The union has criticized both the state and central governments for ignoring their demands, especially when the state government talks about women empowerment but fails to address the issues of these women workers.
What Readers Should Know
Mid-day meal workers in Himachal have not received a salary hike in 17 years. The High Court had directed the government to pay salaries for 12 months, but only 10 months are being paid. Workers also face delayed payments and lack of retirement benefits.
FAQ
Why are mid-day meal workers striking in Himachal?
They are demanding a monthly salary of Rs 7,000, implementation of 12-month salary as per High Court order, and other benefits like gratuity and pension.
When and where is the strike happening?
The strike and rally are on June 22, 2026, starting from Tollund and ending at the Secretariat in Shimla.
Who is organizing the strike?
The strike is organized by the CITU-affiliated Mid-Day Meal Workers Union.
Source: www.amarujala.com