'Paid ₹10,000 per year': Cooks in Education Department stage protest in Budgam

August 25, 2025 by News Desk

The Cook Union of the Education Department on Monday staged a strong protest in Magam area of Budgam district, demanding the implementation of the Minimum Wages Act and a clear policy for their regularization.

The agitating cooks expressed serious resentment, alleging that they have been subjected to “gross injustice” for years. Despite serving schools diligently, they said they continue to receive only ₹900 per month as wages, an amount they described as inhuman and far below the standards required to sustain a family.

“This is sheer exploitation. We are working tirelessly, yet our wages are not even enough to meet the most basic household expenses,” one of the protestors said.

The union appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to step in and address their grievances without further delay. They stressed that fair wages and job security are essential to safeguard their livelihoods and dignity. [KNT]