New Delhi, July 14: Serious allegations of employee harassment, administrative irregularities and misuse of outsourcing arrangements have surfaced at the Jammu & Kashmir House, prompting demands for an independent government inquiry.

According to a representation submitted to the authorities, junior employees have allegedly been subjected to prolonged harassment and exploitation, while officers posted from the Union Territory continue to hold the same positions for extended periods, resulting in the continued victimisation of lower-level staff.

The representation also alleges significant irregularities in the engagement of outsourced employees. It claims that the number of outsourced workers is nearly three times the sanctioned strength and that, despite annual changes in the outsourcing agency, the same personnel have continued in service for years. It further alleges that some outsourced workers have been issued official government identity cards and extended facilities that may be contrary to prescribed rules.

Concerns have also been raised over attendance monitoring, with the representation alleging that while biometric attendance is mandatory in most government offices, only a local attendance system is being used at J&K House, raising questions about transparency and accountability.

The complainants have further alleged that staff shortages and poor work distribution have created an unhealthy work environment, with Class IV employees reportedly being assigned responsibilities meant for multiple higher-level posts. They claim this has resulted in excessive workload, employee dissatisfaction and frequent disputes, including reports of verbal and physical altercations among staff.

Seeking immediate intervention, the representation urges the Government to order a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged irregularities, ensure accountability and provide justice to employees who have allegedly suffered discrimination or unfair treatment, including reinstatement wherever warranted.

The allegations could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate response from the authorities concerned.