Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 02 May 2024
ANTCC Campaign Committee Chairperson, Mr. TSG Bhasker, has brought to light a concerning issue regarding the non-deposit of Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contribution into the EPF Accounts of employees under the National Health Mission (NHM) in Andaman & Nicobar Islands since April 2016.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Mr. Bhasker underscored that an EPFO enquiry report revealed outstanding dues amounting to Rs. 2.43 crore for a period of two years from April 2016 to July 2018. NHM proposed a sum of Rs. 10.31 crore (comprising Rs. 8.11 crore and Rs. 2.20 crore) in the NHM budget for FY 2024-26 to clear these arrears. However, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, rejected the proposal in NHM ROP 2024-26.
Mr. Bhasker alleged that despite EPFO enquiry and recovery measures under Section 8F, the National Health Mission persists in its refusal to pay EPF contributions, which constitutes a blatant violation of the EPF and MP Act 1952 and Labour Laws.
Expressing concern for the integrity of the healthcare infrastructure and the welfare of affected employees, Mr. Bhasker urged the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to address this issue promptly.
Copies of the letter were also furnished to the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, Commissioner cum Secretary of Labour and Employment, and the Labour Commissioner of A&N Islands.
The matter highlights the urgent need for resolution to ensure the financial security of NHM employees and adherence to legal obligations concerning EPF contributions.