Congress Criticizes Freeze on New Government Posts as Blow to Unemployed Youth

The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) has strongly opposed the government's policy to halt the creation of new government jobs, labelling it a severe setback for unemployed young people in the region. This decision, they argue, severely limits opportunities in an area already grappling with scarce employment options.

Raman Bhalla, JKPCC working president, voiced his concerns during a public address in Jammu, warning that the decision would only worsen the unemployment situation for educated youth aspiring for stable government positions. He emphasized the pressing need for the government to reverse this decision, advocating that instead of austerity measures cutting job prospects, they should focus on curbing excessive spending among the ruling elite.

The government recently issued a directive enforcing these cost-cutting measures, halting new job creation as a fiscal strategy. Bhalla demanded the administration reinstate job opportunities, particularly in sectors like education and healthcare, to support qualified youth. He also called for a comprehensive employment strategy to fuel economic growth and provide meaningful jobs.

The Congress leadership highlighted the socio-economic risks of prolonged unemployment and argued for a policy that encourages industrial investment and entrepreneurship across key sectors, thereby creating a sustainable employment framework for the region's youth.

(With inputs from agencies.)