Maharashtra Government Issues Strict "No Work, No Pay" Warning Ahead of State-Wide Strike

__________________________________________

HT Correspondent 

__________________________________________

@hindostantimes.com

Mumbai: The Government of Maharashtra has issued a stern warning to state employees planning to join an indefinite strike starting today, April 21, 2026. In a circular released by the General Administration Department, the state government has invoked the "No Work, No Pay" principle and warned of disciplinary action against those participating in the agitation.

The strike has been called by the State Government Employees Central Federation and the Class IV Employees Central Confederation to press for various pending demands.

Participation in the strike will be treated as "misconduct" under the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules. The government has directed department heads to initiate disciplinary proceedings against striking employees immediately. The government highlighted that strict action will be taken against employees working in departments categorized under the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA). No fresh leaves will be granted during the strike period. Authorities have also been instructed to review existing leaves and recall employees to duty wherever necessary.

 All departments have been tasked with submitting daily attendance reports to the Ministry. Regional offices must report attendance by 12:00 PM, while consolidated data must reach the General Administration Department by 2:00 PM every day. To ensure that government offices remain functional and open at scheduled times, the administration has been authorized to seek assistance from the Police or Home Guards if required.

While the circular encourages department heads to persuade employees to refrain from the strike and maintain regular office attendance, it emphasizes that the "No Work, No Pay" policy will be strictly enforced. All department and office heads have been ordered to remain at their headquarters for the duration of the strike to manage administrative operations.