ISLAMABAD: Hundreds of government employees staged a protest outside Parliament House, demanding an increase in salaries and benefits amid rising inflation and the growing cost of living.
The demonstration led to a tense standoff between protesters and law enforcement personnel as employees attempted to march towards Parliament House to register their concerns before
lawmakers.
A large number of government workers gathered near the Red Zone, carrying placards and chanting slogans in support of their demands. The protesters said that soaring inflation has
significantly reduced their purchasing power and made it increasingly difficult for public servants to meet household expenses.The demonstrators called on the government to increase salaries, revise allowances, and provide greater financial relief to employees struggling with the impact of rising prices. They argued that while inflation has continued to climb, government salaries and service-related benefits have
failed to keep pace with the increasing cost of living.
As protesters attempted to move towards Parliament House, they were met by a heavy deployment of Islamabad Police and Punjab Police personnel. Security forces erected barriers and blocked access routes leading to the parliament building in an effort to prevent
demonstrators from entering the high-security area.
According to protest participants, police used force to stop their advance, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and security personnel. Protesters alleged that baton charges were carried out against employees who were attempting to march peacefully towards Parliament House. Several demonstrators were also reportedly detained during the operation, although
authorities did not immediately release official figures regarding the number of arrests.
The videos circulating from the protest site appeared to show police officials coordinating security
arrangements and directing personnel to prevent protesters from advancing further. The footage also showed a significant security presence in and around the area as authorities sought to
maintain control of the situation.
Government employees strongly rejected allegations of any unlawful activity, insisting that their protest was peaceful and conducted within the framework of their constitutional and democratic rights. They maintained that their objective was simply to present their demands before elected
representatives and seek relief for public-sector workers affected by economic hardship.
“Our intention was to record a peaceful protest and convey our concerns directly to parliamentarians,” one protest participant said. “We are demanding fair salaries and benefits that reflect the realities of inflation and the increasing burden on government employees.”
Despite the police action, a large number of protesters remained gathered near Parliament House and continued their demonstration throughout the day. Protest leaders warned that employees
would continue raising their voice until the government takes concrete steps to address their concerns regarding salaries, allowances, and other service-related benefits.The protest highlights growing frustration among government employees, who argue that economic pressures have intensified in recent years while their compensation has remained largely unchanged. As tensions persisted outside Parliament House, protesters vowed to continue their campaign for improved pay and benefits, describing their demands as essential for the welfare of public-sector workers and their families.
