Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 8 Jun: Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal has warned of decisive action in response to the ongoing strike and work boycott by junior engineers of the Electricity Department. Taking immediate cognisance of the matter, the DM today summoned the Superintending Engineer and issued strict instructions to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the public, making it clear that any disruption to essential services would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Following the DM’s directives, the Additional District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police (City) promptly conveyed the administration’s firm stance to the Electricity Department. The Superintending Engineer was instructed to closely monitor the attendance of engineers involved in the strike or boycott.
The DM further directed the police to strictly enforce the prohibition of protests or demonstrations within a 200-metre radius of key premises. He ordered that FIRs must be registered in case of any violations. Alternative arrangements have been mandated to maintain power supply throughout the district without delay. He added that a 24×7 control room is to remain operational for monitoring emergencies and immediately reporting any disruptions in power supply to the concerned authorities.
The DM warned that any negligence, wilful disruption, or indiscipline regarding electricity supply would attract stringent disciplinary action under service rules. Should any striking personnel be found responsible for disruptions, strict legal action under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be initiated.
Also emphasising the paramount importance of public welfare, the DM issued stern instructions to all engineers and staff to fulfil their duties and ensure uninterrupted electricity services. He asserted that power substations, the region, and the people fall under the administration’s responsibility, and that administrative inaction or forced silence would not be tolerated in Dehradun. He asserted that no group of employees is powerful enough to deprive the public of essential services, and reminded all that the Chief Minister has categorically directed that no injustice to the public will be accepted.
Adopting a strict tone, the DM declared that under no circumstances would women, elderly, or children in the district be subjected to a power crisis during his tenure. He reiterated the prohibition of demonstrations within 200 metres of the headquarters and warned of FIRs for any violations. He added that the administration is fully aware of its powers and responsibilities and is capable of dealing with any coercive situation effectively. The Electricity Department was also reminded of its accountability to the public and the authority of the administration.
Meanwhile, in a written communication to the DM, the Deputy Chief Personnel Officer of Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd reported that, in June 2025, a large group of association members assembled at the corporation’s headquarters, raised slogans near the HR Department and Managing Director’s offices, and subsequently staged demonstrations near the General Manager (Legal)’s office. The protestors allegedly shouted slogans, abused HR officers, engaged in manhandling, and made objectionable remarks, thereby creating a tense atmosphere and disrupting routine administrative work.
It may be recalled that the agitation has also reportedly hindered the movement of officials and employees at the headquarters, potentially affecting the smooth functioning of the power system across the state. In view of the tense situation prevailing at the Urja Bhawan here, the police have been instructed to deploy adequate personnel to ensure law and order. The DM has also ordered a complete ban on any form of protest or demonstration within 200 metres of the headquarters building.
