Electricity Employees Poised for Renewed Struggle: Protest Against CPDL Scheduled for October 19.

Electricity Employees Poised for Renewed Struggle: Protest Against CPDL Scheduled for October 19.

Chandigarh 30 September ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : Electricity employees of UT Chandigarh are set to take to the streets once again to stage phased protests against the Chandigarh Administration and CPDL management. The plan includes holding a series of rallies and demonstrations, culminating in a massive protest on October 19 in front of the Electricity Office in Sector 17. This decision was reached during a meeting of the union's executive committee, presided over by Union President Amrik Singh. Following extensive deliberations, the meeting strongly condemned the Chandigarh Administration and CPDL management. Allegations were raised that the Chandigarh Administration had illegally, unilaterally, and arbitrarily transferred government employees—treating them like mere commodities—to a private company without their consent, effectively washing its hands of the matter and abandoning the staff to their fate. Meanwhile, the company is accused of treating these employees unfairly and adopting a dismissive attitude rather than addressing their grievances and difficulties. Furthermore, the nature of the employees' work is being drastically altered, and they are being subjected to harassment.

Deep concern and resentment were expressed during the meeting regarding the deployment of retired officers from specific departments to mentally harass the staff; it appears these individuals were hired solely to torment and trouble the employees. These officers—who were previously responsible for the department's deteriorating condition—are now not only harassing staff through their negative work practices but are also causing continuous financial loss to the company. During the meeting, surprise was expressed over the fact that although demands were discussed with the CPDL management on July 21—and the planned July 22 protest was postponed based on assurances of their implementation—all demands remain unresolved even after two months. The administration has shirked its responsibility regarding the promotion of regular employees; consequently, promotions for posts that fell vacant in February 2025 have not yet taken place. The company has also reneged on its promise to absorb contract employees onto its regular rolls and is now looking to oust them by proposing a UPSC-level examination. Furthermore, even the promised 2% additional hike in DC rates has not been implemented for the past three months. Both the administration and the company remain silent on issues concerning time-bound promotions, pay scales, and medical facilities.

A double standard is also being applied regarding the payment of dues to retired employees. Despite court cases being pending, employees are being threatened with termination and the withholding of promotions for failing to submit their Annual Performance Appraisal Reports (APAR). An appeal was made to all employees to participate in upcoming rallies and to turn out in large numbers for the protest scheduled for October 19. The meeting specifically called upon the Administrator to intervene in the interest of the employees and urged the company's top leadership to take cognizance of the matter.