Islamabad:Federal government employees and several trade unions have announced a strike in protest against the 7 percent salary increase announced in the Federal Budget 2026-27, describing the raise as insufficient in view of the rising cost of living.
Representatives of various employee organizations argued that the salary adjustment does not match the sharp increase in inflation and household expenses. They said government employees continue to face financial difficulties due to rising prices of essential commodities and utility costs.
Speaking to protesters, trade union leader Rahman Bajwa said employees had expected a much larger increase in salaries to offset the impact of inflation. He expressed disappointment over the budget measures, claiming that the relief announced by the government falls short of public expectations.
Several unions, including those representing railway workers, WAPDA employees, municipal committees, TMAs and district councils, have strongly criticized the salary increase and announced protest demonstrations. Union leaders said employees have exhausted all other options and are now compelled to take to the streets to press their demands.
The protesters accused the government of failing to provide meaningful relief to ordinary citizens and low-income groups. They argued that while the cost of living continues to rise, workers and salaried individuals are struggling to meet daily expenses.
Employee representatives also announced a "Jail Bharo Tehreek" (Fill the Jails Movement), stating that they are prepared to face arrests if their demands are not addressed. The protesters pointed to increasing prices of essential food items, including milk, ghee, sugar, chicken, beef and mutton, as well as rising fuel costs, saying these factors have placed additional pressure on household budgets. They also criticized the closure of Utility Stores, which they said had previously provided some relief to low-income families.
Federal employees attempted to march toward Parliament House, but security personnel, including police and Frontier Corps (FC) officials, were deployed to restrict access to sensitive areas. Despite the security arrangements, protesters continued their demonstrations and staged a sit-in outside Parliament.
