Imphal, February 18: Following the cease work strike by the Manipur Secretariat Service Association (MSSA) against the State Government's decision to recruit 25 Section Officers in the Secretariat on direct recruitment basis, normal functioning of the office was severely affected today.

The MSSA has been demanding to full up the vacant posts of 25 SOs on promotion basis from amongst the existing employees of the Manipur Secretariat qualified for the posts.

Because of the cease work strike launched today, all official works of the Secretariat came to a virtual halt in both the office buildings (new and old buildings).

Even though the employees belonging to the MSSA attended office, they stayed away from their normal officials duties.

The MSSA has a total number of over 800 members.

Interestingly, Chief Secretary Jarnail Singh had warned the agitating MSSA members that they would not get any salary or emolument in case they stay from their duties under 'no work, no pay' rule.

The Chief Secretary also threatened legal actions against the MSSA members.

The Chief Secretary said that necessary steps will be taken up to ensure that normal functioning of the office is not affected.

He also asserted that the strike will not affect the proceedings of the Assembly session scheduled to commence from February 20 .

On the other hand, MSSA president Y Joykumar maintained that they will continue with their agitation until their demands are fulfilled.

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