‘Daily Wagers on Streets in IIOJK’

The continuous struggle of daily wage workers in Jammu’s Power Development Department (PDD) and the growing public resistance to smart meter installations highlight a deepening crisis in the region’s power sector.

The indefinite strike by daily wagers of the Power Development Department (PDD) and Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) entered its sixth consecutive day. The protesting workers are demanding regularization of their services, a long-pending issue that has left many in uncertainty.

Despite heavy rain, daily wage workers, including PDL and TDL employees from different parts of Jammu, gathered in front of the office of the Managing Director of JPDCL. They staged a strong demonstration, emphasizing their grievances over job insecurity and lack of benefits.

Akhil Sharma, president of the workers’ union, pointed out a critical error in the recently held JPDCL Board meeting. According to him, the board’s recommendation mistakenly classified “409 out of 423” eligible workers as requiring age or qualification relaxation due to misapplication of the criteria. This administrative blunder has intensified the workers’ frustration and further delayed their path to regularization.

Meanwhile, in Kishtwar’s Umer Mohalla, residents once again resisted the installation of smart meters, marking the third such protest in recent weeks. Citing financial hardship, locals have continuously opposed the move, arguing that they cannot afford the rising electricity costs associated with these meters.

When PDD officials arrived with police to install the meters, residents mobilized in large numbers, demanding disconnection rather than accepting smart meters. The primary concern among locals is the anticipated surge in electricity bills, particularly in an area plagued by high unemployment and economic struggles.

One of the protesters voiced their frustration, highlighting the paradox that while Kishtwar’s hydroelectric projects generate power for other states at no cost, the local population is being forced to bear hefty electricity expenses. This sentiment has fueled growing unrest in the region, with people determined to prevent the installation of meters that they believe will exacerbate their financial strain.

As tensions rose, the officials were ultimately compelled to abandon the installation process, leaving the situation unresolved. The repeated resistance from residents signals a brewing conflict between the authorities and the local population over power sector policies.

The ongoing strike by PDD workers and the rising public opposition to smart meters reflect broader systemic issues in Jammu’s energy sector. Addressing these concerns requires urgent government intervention to ensure both workers’ rights and fair electricity pricing for consumers.