Trade unions, farmers’ organizations, and employee organizations are on strike today against the trade deal between India and the United States. This will impact the functioning of several departments. Operations in various departments, including banks, PSPCL, Punjab Roadways, PRTC, and PUNBUS, may be affected due to the strike across the nation.
Trade unions have announced protests in various cities across Punjab. Union leaders will decide later whether buses will operate. Employees’ organizations of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) have announced a full-day strike. However, PSPCL has warned that any employee who participates in the strike could face dismissal.
The strike by employees, farmers, and trade unions has also received support from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress in Punjab. The AAP has directed its workers to support the strike. Meanwhile, Congress General Secretary Venugopal has also urged support for the nationwide strike.
PSPCL issues this warning to employees
No Work, No Pay Rule Will Be Implemented: Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has issued a strict warning to employees that if they strike, a no-work, no-pay rule will be implemented. Management has advised employees not to participate in the strike. Strikes cause significant inconvenience to both PSPCL and the public.
A full day’s salary will be deducted if an employee is absent for even two hours on a strike day: PSPCL management has stated that employees who are absent for even two hours on a strike day will be denied their salary for that entire day. Furthermore, employees participating in the strike may also lose their past service benefits, potentially hindering their future advancement.
Pension benefits for employees nearing retirement will be withheld: PSPCL management has stated that employees who are due to retire during 2026-27 may face a suspension of their pension benefits if they participate in the strike. Contract workers and probationary employees have been warned of immediate dismissal.
PSPCL cancels leave: Management has decided not to grant leave to any employee today except in case of medical emergencies. All officers have been instructed to remain present at their headquarters and not leave the station without permission. The letter also states that if protesters obstruct the work of officers on duty, immediate assistance should be sought from the local police.
Control Room Established
A central control room has also been established at the Patiala headquarters to monitor power supply, and emergency information can be reported on its mobile number 9646111229 and telephone number 0175-2220853.
Rally to be held in Sector 17, Chandigarh
In Chandigarh, the Federation of UT Employees and Workers has called for a complete strike on February 12th and a rally in Bridge Market, Sector 17. Employees from various departments like electricity, water, health and transport are participating in this strike.