Guwahati: The Assam State Outsource Power Workers Union has urged the state govt to intervene and protect the interest of the fixed-pay employees working in the power department, alleging that their wages have been reduced despite years of service and repeated demands of regularisation.The union said it has consistently sought job security and regularisation for these fixed-pay workers, who continued to do essential duties across the state. “Instead of addressing these demands, the department has reduced the salaries of fixed-pay employees this year, adversely affecting livelihood,” said Hemanta Saikia, the organisation’s general secretary.At a protest on Monday, the union demanded immediate release of pending salaries of outsourced power workers and regular, timely monthly payment of fixed pay. It also asked the govt to take strict action against contractors or agencies accused of violating labour norms.The organisation warned that if the department failed to address the issue, it would launch a statewide agitation. It said it would join the Assam State Electricity Employees’ Council and the Assam Temporary Bill & Meter Readers’ Association to launch a sustained agitation at Bijuli Bhavan, demanding restoration of wages and regularisation of fixed-pay employees.“The APDCL employees could not participate in the ongoing protest at Bijulee Bhavan as they were instructed to prioritise public service,” the general secretary said.The union expressed gratitude to CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for acknowledging the contribution of APDCL and fixed-pay workers in a social media post on July 24, where he highlighted the hardships faced by power employees in restoring electricity during adverse weather conditions. However, it said the appreciation must now be backed by concrete action to safeguard the welfare of these workers.
