As the Punjab Assembly debated the Budget 2026–27, government employees gathered outside the assembly to demand economic relief and stronger protections for public sector workers.
Protesters criticized budgetary policies that they said place the burden of the economic crisis on ordinary people while providing greater relief to powerful economic interests. They argued that rising living costs have significantly reduced the purchasing power of government employees.
A central demand of the demonstration was an increase in salaries in line with inflation. Workers said that without meaningful wage increases, their real incomes continue to decline as the prices of essential goods and services rise.
Employees also demanded protection of pensions and opposed measures they believe threaten the financial security of retired workers. Another key demand was the regularization of contract employees, many of whom continue to work without the same employment security and protections as permanent staff.
The protesters also called for an end to what they described as anti-worker policies and demanded greater consideration of employees' concerns during the budget process.
The demonstration reflected growing frustration among public sector workers facing increasing household expenses and declining real wages. Participants argued that economic policy should protect workers' livelihoods rather than make them bear the costs of wider economic pressures.
The protesters called on the Punjab government to address their demands and ensure that the budget provides meaningful economic relief and employment security for public sector employees.