The recent High Court directive to the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, urging consideration of pension pleas from 40 former employees, highlights a crucial issue of fairness and equality. These individuals, who dedicated the prime of their lives to the service of the Waqf Board, deserve the same rights and benefits as their counterparts in state government service.
For years, these employees have worked tirelessly to maintain and manage Waqf properties, contributing significantly to the religious and social fabric of our community. As they now face the challenges of old age, many find themselves without the financial security that a pension would provide—a security that state government employees often take for granted. This disparity is not only unjust but also raises serious questions about the value we place on the contributions of those serving in religious and quasi-governmental institutions.
The principle of equal rights for all workers is a fundamental tenet of justice. Whether one serves in a government office or within the framework of a religious institution, their dedication should be met with respect and adequate provision for their future. Denying these former employees their rightful pensions undermines the years of service they have given, often at personal sacrifice.
The issue at hand is not merely about financial compensation; it’s about recognizing the dignity of work. These employees have played a crucial role in our society, and by denying them pensions, we risk sending a message that their contributions are less valuable than those of government employees. This notion is both unjust and unfounded.
The High Court’s intervention is a vital step towards correcting this imbalance. The Waqf Board now has the opportunity to ensure that those who have dedicated their lives to service are not left to struggle in their later years. Justice demands that these individuals receive the same rights and benefits as any other public servant. The Waqf Board must act swiftly to provide the pensions these former employees rightfully deserve.