Gurugram : A proposed three-day strike by Haryana Energy Department employees from August 11 to 13 was called off on Monday following a series of assurances from Energy Minister Anil Vij on key issues, including the proposed parallel power distribution licence, formation of an Agri DISCOM, smart meters, promotions and employee welfare measures.
The decision was taken after a detailed meeting chaired by Vij with representatives of various employee unions, associations and the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of power employees. Senior officials from the Energy Department, Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited (HVPNL), Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN) and Dakshin Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (DHBVN) also attended the meeting.
Announcing the withdrawal of the strike, employee representatives said the government had responded positively to their major concerns and assured them that their demands would be considered.
One of the key issues discussed was the proposal to grant a parallel electricity distribution licence in the Gurugram-Nuh region. Vij reiterated that the Energy Department had opposed the proposal from the outset.
“We have opposed it and continue to oppose it,” Vij said, adding that the matter is currently before the Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC), an autonomous body. He also indicated that the department could explore legal options, including an appeal, if required.
On the proposed Agri DISCOM, Vij said that although the idea had been announced in the state budget, no formal process had yet been initiated. He assured employee representatives that all stakeholders would be consulted before any decision is taken.
Addressing concerns over smart meters, the minister clarified that no fresh tender has been issued for their procurement and said consumers would continue to have the choice between prepaid and postpaid smart meters.
The meeting also focused on employee welfare issues, including promotions, cadre restructuring, medical cashless facilities, risk allowance, electricity allowance and salary parity for DC-rate workers with HKRN employees.
Vij directed officials to expedite proposals related to staff rationalisation, promotions and ex-gratia benefits for employees who die or suffer accidents while on duty. He also assured unions that demands related to Junior Engineer promotions and career progression would be examined in consultation with employee representatives.
Following the assurances, both the Joint Action Committee and the HSEB Diploma Engineers Association formally withdrew their strike call, paving the way for normal functioning of the state’s power utilities.