Kupwara block without BMO, staff await salaries

Kupwara, Dec 6: Block Kupwara has been functioning without a Block Medical Officer (BMO) since November 26, after the incumbent officer was transferred and posted as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Kupwara, vide Government Order No. 736-JK(HME) of 2025 dated 26-11-25.

The vacancy has left routine administrative work in limbo.

With no officer currently authorised to clear monthly bills, employees posted across the block say their November salaries have not been processed.

Several staff members told this correspondent that they have been visiting the block office for the past few days, only to be informed that salary files cannot move until a new BMO is posted.

“The transfer happened abruptly. Since then, nothing requiring an administrative signature has moved,” a health worker said, requesting anonymity.

Employees fear further delays if the post remains vacant, particularly with the winter workload increasing in peripheral health facilities. They have appealed to the Commissioner Secretary Health to make an interim arrangement to avoid disruption in services and ensure salaries are released without delay.