Lahore: Employees of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) have intensified their pen-down strike across the nation, demanding the payment of biannual bonuses and the resumption of suspended medical facilities. The protest took a tragic turn with the death of Adeel Mushtaq, an employee from the Gujranwala office, highlighting alleged negligence by the management.

Adeel Mushtaq’s health deteriorated, prompting his transfer to Lahore for medical treatment. However, due to unpaid dues by PSQCA, affiliated hospitals refused to provide services. He was subsequently taken to Jinnah Hospital, where he passed away.

The protests have been ongoing since before Eid al-Adha. Director to Minister Shakil Arshad had visited the Lahore office before Eid, promising resolution of the issues within a week after the holiday. Despite his assurances, employees report no progress, leading to increased unrest.

Workers have also reported receiving threats from the management regarding their continued protest. Muhammad Tariq, Chairman of the Employees Union, expressed the workers’ determination to fight for their rights, stating that management’s actions have only added to their difficulties.

Tariq called on Federal Minister Khalid Magsi to intervene urgently, citing the withholding of bonuses and healthcare as exploitation of the workforce.