Electricity Staff in Amritsar Oppose Mandatory Smartphone Allocation
Employees of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) in Amritsar have raised strong objections against the forced allocation of smartphones. The workers claim that the management is compelling them to purchase expensive smartphones without prior consultation or consent. This move has sparked widespread discontent among the staff, who argue that the financial burden is unjustified.
According to sources, the PSPCL administration issued directives for employees to acquire specific smartphone models for official work. However, the employees were not given a choice in the matter, leading to protests. Many workers have stated that they already own functional phones and see no need for additional devices. The forced allocation, they argue, violates their rights and adds unnecessary expenses.
Financial Burden on Employees
The smartphones in question are priced between Rs 15,000 and Rs 25,000, a significant amount for many employees. Workers from various cadres, including linemen and junior engineers, have expressed concern over the cost. They point out that the PSPCL is not providing any subsidy or reimbursement for the devices, making it a direct financial hit. Some employees have even threatened to escalate the matter to higher authorities if the decision is not reversed.
Lack of Consultation
Union leaders have criticized the management for not involving employee representatives in the decision-making process. They argue that such policies should be discussed with unions before implementation. The forced allocation, they say, reflects a top-down approach that ignores the concerns of the workforce. The unions have demanded an immediate halt to the order and a dialogue with the management to find a mutually acceptable solution.
Meanwhile, the PSPCL management has defended its decision, stating that the smartphones are necessary for efficient monitoring and communication. Officials claim that the devices will help improve service delivery and streamline operations. However, employees remain unconvinced and have vowed to continue their protests until their demands are met. The issue has now become a flashpoint in labor-management relations in the state's power sector.
