Request to members to wear black badge on 07.02.2011(Monday) to protest against Govt.’s apathy on GP upgradation issue

Our GS backed by the mandate given to him in CWC meeting at Ambaji had written to Secretary (Posts) on 23.12.2010 intimating anguish over delay in proceeding with the proposal for upgradation of GP of IPs to `4600/-. Time upto 31.01.2011 was given to Directorate with indication that trade union activities would follow if no action is taken. It was expected that going by the resentment the issue has created in the minds of IP line officials, the Dept. would wake up to take some steps. But it is learnt from our GS on 02.02.2011 that Directorate has done nothing. Informal meeting with Establishment Division of the Directorate has only yielded information that the related file would be moved soon. (No one knows with what objective!).

It is a matter of regret that Directorate is yet to take action on the letter of our GS on the burning issue. At least it was expected that the Department would give a formal reply assuring us some positive action at the earliest. It would have gone a long way in assuaging the feelings of the cadre when developments are watched with anxiety and anxiousness. But the Directorate has not bothered to do that. This shows how insensitive the Department is towards a cadre which is known for its dedication and commitment.

The attitude of the Department towards IP cadre is thus exposed for everybody to see and feel. Way back in April-May 2010 there was a rumour that the Department was going to take up the matter in Postal Services Board meeting to formalize merger of IP & ASP cadres for taking up the matter with MOF to facilitate upgradation of GP of the merged cadre at par with their counterparts in CBDT/CBEC. But the move is stalled on various pretexts. Nothing has prevented the Department to go ahead with the action for merger of IP and ASP cadres. From its side the Association has since given its consent to the merger proposal. But the Department has remained passive.

Now the circumstances warrant that the IP cadre should come out with demonstrative action in conformity with trade union activities to express resentment on the burning issue of upgradation of GP of IPs. Heads of Circle / Regions/Divisions in Odisha Circle were informed of the resolution passed in Circle Working Committee meeting on 05.12.2010 to start agitation by way of wearing black badge in first week of every month starting from month of February 2011.

Now it is time to implement the resolution as the Department has not even assured us in writing about positive action on the issue. Members of AIAIASP, Odisha Circle Branch are, therefore, requested to start agitation by wearing black badge on 07.02.2011 (only one day in February 2011). Office-bearers are requested to coordinate with members to make it a success.