15 striking power employees terminated, 148 suspended in Raj

Rajasthan government has terminated 15
Technical staff of power companies and suspended 148 others for starting indefinite 'tool down' strike in the state for their demands.
Since last night, 15 employees have been terminated and 148 suspended, Rajasthan Energy Minister Pushpendra Singh said, adding that besides, 12 staffers have also been arrested.
"The state government had imposed Rajasthan Essential Services Maintenance Act (RESMA)-1970 prohibiting strike in the power companies but the technical staff started agitation affecting supply in some areas of the state so the action was taken," Singh told PTI today.
On the department's complaint, an FIR has been lodged against those affecting the power supply and creating disturbances.

The technical staff went on strike on the call of Rajasthan Electricity Technical Employees Association for their demand of pay parity.

Chief Secretary C S Rajan, chairing a meeting of the energy department officials, directed them to take prompt and stern against those who interrupt the supply.
Meanwhile, Centre of India Trade Unions condemned the action terming it an "oppressive" move of the government.
"Instead of initiating dialogue with the agitating employees, the government took action against them. The government should come forward to find a logical and suitable solution to address the demands of the employees," Ravindra Shukla, state president of CITU, said.