JAMMU: In a significant step towards promoting transparent governance and effective grievances redressal in the labour sector, the Labour Commissioner Jammu and Kashmir S. Charandeep Singh today launched a new initiative titled “Shramik Warta”.

The innovative programme is designed to establish direct communication channels with workers and labourers across the Union Territory through virtual platforms. The core objective of Shramik Warta is to ensure prompt and time-bound resolution of genuine labour-related grievances, while fostering accountability and responsiveness within the Labour Department.

During the inaugural session held today, the Labour Commissioner interacted virtually with all 20 Assistant Labour Commissioners (ALCs) of the UT and personally heard the grievances of around 45 complainants from various districts. The Labour Commissioner, J&K attentively listened to each grievance and issued on-the-spot directions to the concerned officers for early redressal.

The issues raised by the complainants primarily revolved around payment of wages, gratuity, compensation, shop registration and issuance of labour cards. Several complainants expressed satisfaction with the swift action taken by the Labour Department, appreciating the initiative as a much-needed platform for direct resolution and communication.

One of the complainant, Mr. Prince Sharma of Siot, Rajouri, of M/S AM Agencies (CFA & Distributors for Procter & Gamble India Pvt. Ltd. and Gillette India Ltd.) employed as a Comber with a monthly salary of ₹15,115/-, brought out his grievance regarding non-payment of salary and dues TA, and retention incentives. He filed a complaint on 19.06.2025 under the Payment of Wages Act, 1936. The Labour Department acted promptly, issuing notices to the employer the same day. A hearing was held on 02.07.2025 before the Labour Court, Rajouri, following which the employer was directed to pay ₹75,979/-. The amount was transferred to the worker on the same day, resolving the grievance within 15 days through timely departmental intervention. Similar other issues were also resolved during the WARTA.

Reinforcing the department’s commitment, S. Charandeep Singh directed the district-level officers to organize awareness camps across the UT. These camps aim to sensitize the labour force about their rights, entitlements, and welfare schemes available under various labour laws and policies.

He further reiterated that Shramik Warta is not just a grievance redressal mechanism but a step toward streamlining departmental processes, fostering transparency, and enhancing collaboration between field functionaries and the labour force. He announced that every Wednesday at 10:30 am to 11:30 am will be designated as the day for direct interaction between workers and the concerned authority, ensuring consistency and accessibility for all stakeholders.

The launch of Shramik Warta marks a progressive shift in labour administration in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that the voices of workers are heard and their rights are protected in a proactive and systematic manner.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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