The Joint Action Committee of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) has called on the board management to formulate a policy for engaging outsourced employees directly on contract, citing a similar initiative by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) as a model.
Committee's Demand for Direct Engagement
In a letter to HPSEBL Chairman Prabodh Saxena, the committee highlighted that over 3,000 outsourced employees currently work for the board through various outsourcing agencies and contractors under different designations. Many of these workers have served the organization for several years, acquiring valuable experience, technical skills, and expertise in the power utility's operations.
The committee emphasized that these employees perform critical operational and maintenance duties across generation, transmission, and distribution wings, as well as in allied offices. Despite their long-term dedicated service, they continue to face uncertainty regarding employment and service conditions.
Call for Policy Inspired by PSPCL
Seeking direct engagement, the committee argued that adopting a policy similar to PSPCL would provide job security and dignity to the outsourced workforce. The PSPCL model reportedly ensures better working conditions and contractual stability for outsourced staff.
The HPSEBL Joint Action Committee's proposal aims to address the precarious status of outsourced workers who have been integral to the board's operations but lack formal employment guarantees. The board has not yet responded to the committee's request.
