MAPUSA
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai raised concerns over the job security of thousands of contractual employees working in various government departments during the Zero Hour of the Goa Legislative Assembly’s winter session.
Highlighting the magnitude of the issue, Sardesai revealed that 1,480 employees are engaged on a contract basis in the directorate offices alone.
He estimated that when considering all government-affiliated institutions, the total number of contractual workers runs into the tens of thousands.
Sardesai cited a recent Supreme Court judgment in Jaggo vs. Union of India, which ruled that long-serving temporary employees performing essential functions within government institutions cannot be denied regularisation solely based on their initial temporary appointment.
The apex court strongly criticised the misuse of contractual employment in the public sector and emphasised the necessity of fair treatment, calling for an end to arbitrary terminations.
Questioning the government’s stance on the issue, Sardesai sought clarity from Chief Minister Pramod Sawant regarding the future of these employees.
In response, the Chief Minister stated that he would “verify” the matter but did not provide any concrete assurance.
The lack of a definitive response has left many contract workers uncertain about their job security.
With the Supreme Court’s verdict reinforcing their rights, pressure is mounting on the State government to address the issue and provide a clear policy on regularisation and fair employment practices.
