Government employees and retirees across several districts of Kashmir have expressed concern over delays in the release of their legitimate financial dues, including General Provident Fund (GPF), pension, leave salary and gratuity, which they claim have remained pending at treasuries or with Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) of various departments for several months.
According to the affected employees, many of these payments have been pending since May or mid-2025, causing financial hardship to serving employees, retirees and their families. Despite completion of required formalities, files are reportedly awaiting clearance at different administrative levels, leading to prolonged delays in disbursement.
Employees said that GPF constitutes deductions made from their monthly salaries and is deposited with the government for safekeeping. Withdrawals are generally sought during pressing personal requirements such as family marriages, medical treatment or other unavoidable circumstances. Delay in release of such funds, they said, disrupts personal financial planning and compels some employees to seek loans.
Retired employees have also flagged delays in the release of pensionary benefits, while families of deceased employees have raised concerns over the slow processing of post-death dues. Several families reported that they are required to make repeated visits to offices and treasuries for the settlement of gratuity, pension and other benefits, often waiting for extended periods.
Officials familiar with the process said that delays may be attributed to procedural issues, verification requirements and a heavy workload at treasuries, but acknowledged that the accumulation of pending cases has added to public dissatisfaction.
Employee representatives have urged the government to intervene and ensure time-bound clearance of pending cases, particularly those involving retirement benefits and post-death claims. They have also called for improved coordination between departments and treasuries to avoid unnecessary procedural delays.
Observers note that timely disbursement of employee dues is essential for maintaining trust and morale within the government workforce. They stress that strengthening administrative efficiency and accountability would help prevent such grievances in the future.
The government, meanwhile, is expected to review the issue, especially in view of the upcoming Budget Session, during which employee welfare and administrative reforms are likely to be discussed.
