Chennai, December 11 (NationPress) The government of Tamil Nadu has issued a firm warning to employees intending to refrain from attending work on Thursday as part of a statewide one-day strike organized by various unions representing government employees. Chief Secretary Muruganandam has stated unequivocally that a full day's salary will be deducted from all employees who choose to skip their duties to take part in the demonstration.

The unions representing government employees, led by the Federation of Government Employees and Teachers Associations, have been persistently protesting, demanding the abolition of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).

In line with this ongoing protest, the unions have proclaimed a one-day strike for Thursday, urging employees from all departments to abstain from their responsibilities.

In response, the Chief Secretary has circulated a warning stating that any employee taking leave today—except for medical reasons—will incur a deduction in their salary. This notice, disseminated to all Additional Chief Secretaries and District Collectors, emphasizes that no casual leave or any form of leave should be approved for December 11, unless justified by medical circumstances.

The directives highlight the necessity for strict attendance monitoring across all governmental sectors. Department heads are instructed to ensure that employees report for duty as expected and to document any unauthorized absences.

Officials who neglect to adhere to attendance regulations will be regarded as violating service rules, as stated in the circular.

To facilitate careful oversight, the Chief Secretary has mandated that all departments submit a consolidated attendance report to the government by 10:15 AM via email. This report is expected to list the names of employees who are present, absent, and those attempting to take leave without appropriate approval.

The government's stringent stance arises amid escalating demands from employee unions, which contend that the CPS undermines their financial security post-retirement. They are advocating for the restoration of the OPS, which guarantees a permanent pension for life. While the state government recognizes these concerns, it maintains that reverting to the old pension model would place a significant financial strain on the state's budget.

As unions are determined to intensify their protests and the government remains steadfast, the anticipated strike on Thursday is likely to gauge participation levels across departments—especially given the stern warning regarding salary deductions for absenteeism.