Tamil Nadu Power Staff Strike Over Contract Worker Demands
Employees of the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) have initiated an indefinite strike, pressing for the regularisation of contract workers and other demands. The protest, led by the contract workers' association, highlights the plight of workers who have served for over two decades without permanent status.
The striking workers are demanding the regularisation of contract staff, filling of over 70,000 vacancies in the state's Energy Department, job security, and recognition for contract workers' contributions. They also call for employment on compassionate grounds for families of more than 250 contract workers who died while on duty.
Protesters argue that contract workers perform the same roles as permanent employees, including critical disaster relief and rehabilitation tasks, yet their services remain unrecognised. The workers' association has stated that the strike will continue until all demands are met.
The TNPDCL is responsible for electricity distribution in Tamil Nadu, and the strike could impact power services if prolonged. No official response from the management has been reported yet.
