Breaking: 55,000 Punjab clerks boycott Health Insurance Scheme Cards; Dr Balbir Singh refutes claim, says all benefits to continue
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 4, 2026:In a major setback to the government in Punjab, nearly 55,000 ministerial employees (clerks) have collectively refused to get cards made under the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme, citing serious concerns over its provisions.
The decision, taken unanimously by the Punjab State Ministerial Services Union, is expected to challenge the Health Department’s efforts to expand the scheme among government staff.
However, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has sought to allay fears, clarifying that employees will not lose any existing benefits. He assured that all current medical facilities and reimbursement benefits will continue alongside the new insurance scheme.
“Employees’ benefits will not be stopped. Whatever benefits they were receiving earlier will continue, along with the advantages of the health insurance scheme,” the minister said.
He also invited union representatives for a meeting on Tuesday, stating he is open to discussions at every stage to address their concerns.
Union leaders, however, maintain that the scheme has several shortcomings. They fear that enrolling could eventually impact existing medical reimbursements and argue that the scheme does not suit their needs, citing complicated treatment procedures.
“The decision has been taken with complete consensus, and no employee will fill out forms for the scheme,” union representatives asserted.
The Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme is a key initiative aimed at providing free treatment at empanelled hospitals to citizens and government employees. Despite this, the large-scale refusal by employees has raised questions over its implementation and acceptance.