16 contractual SDOs await regularisation

The Himachal Pradesh All Contractual Employees Federation has urged the state government to immediately regularise 16 Subdivisional Officers (SDOs) serving under the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (HPPWD).

In a press release, the federation expressed disappointment that despite clear assurances from Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the SDOs remain unregularised. A spokesperson stated that during a cabinet meeting on April 5, it was decided to regularise all contractual employees who had completed two years of service by March 31, 2025. This was officially notified by the Department of Personnel on April 8.

“While most departments acted upon the notification and regularised eligible employees, 16 SDOs in the PWD—who have completed over three years of service—are still awaiting regularisation,” the spokesperson said.

He added that a federation delegation had personally met CM Sukhu, who once again assured swift action. However, no steps have been taken so far. “We appeal to the Chief Minister to intervene immediately. These employees are facing mental distress and uncertainty due to the prolonged delay,” the spokesperson said, urging the government to uphold its commitment and provide relief to the affected officers.