LAHORE: Hundreds of employees of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) observed a nationwide pen-down strike on Monday in protest against the non-payment of biannual bonuses and suspension of medical facilities.

The situation escalated tragically when Adeel Mushtaq, an employee at the Gujranwala office, became a victim of alleged management negligence.

The employees said Adeel’s health deteriorated and he was brought to Lahore for treatment. However, due to unpaid dues by the PSQCA management, the panel hospitals refused to give him treatment, citing suspended agreements. Consequently, he was shifted to Jinnah Hospital where he passed away.

The employees revealed that protests had been ongoing since before Eidul Azha. During a visit to the Lahore office before Eid, Director to Minister Shakil Arshad had promised resolution of all issues of the workers within a week after Eidul Azha. Despite his assurance, no progress has been made, fueling unrest among the employees.

The workers also reported receiving threats of severe consequences from the management for continuing their protest.

Muhammad Tariq, chairman of the Employees Union, stated, “Instead of resolving issues, the management is pushing us toward further complications. We are united and determined to secure our rights.” He appealed to Federal Minister for Science & Technology Khalid Magsi to intervene immediately, stating that withholding bonuses and healthcare was blatant exploitation of the workforce.

Published in Dawn, June 24th, 2025