In protest against the policies of the Punjab government, the state’s electricity employees launched a vigorous agitation in Ludhiana today. Responding to a call by the Power Sector Joint Action Committee, approximately 4,000 electricity employees, engineers, and pensioners from across the state gathered in Ludhiana. All demonstrators are currently rallying outside the residence of the State Power Minister, Sanjeev Arora, to express their outrage against the government.
In view of the protest, the Ludhiana police administration is on high alert. Barricades have been erected on all major routes leading to the Minister’s residence, and a heavy police force has been deployed. The demonstrators are scheduled to conduct a protest march through the city for approximately four hours, raising concerns that traffic movement in several areas could be disrupted.
**Why Are the Employees Resentful?**
The strategy for the agitation was finalized during a meeting held at the office of the Chief Engineer (Central Zone) in Sarabha Nagar. Union leaders allege that valuable departmental land assets are being sold off—a move that the employees categorically refuse to accept under any circumstances.
**Opposition to the Electricity Amendment Bill**
The employees have also adopted a firm stance against the government regarding the proposed Electricity Amendment Bill-2025. They contend that the work on installing two new 800-MW units in Ropar is being deliberately delayed, resulting in losses for both the department and its employees. Office-bearers of the Joint Action Committee have issued a warning that if the government fails to take a prompt decision regarding their demands, the agitation will be further intensified. Through today’s rally, the electricity employees aim to send a strong message to the government, ensuring their voices are heard loud and clear.
