The Punjab State Power Meter Reader and Supervisor Union has been on indefinite strike for several days. Alleging exploitation of outsourced meter readers, they have accused officials of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) of harassment. In a complaint to senior authorities, the union demanded an immediate inquiry into the functioning of private firms engaged in meter reading operations. Union leaders alleged that hundreds of outsourced meter readers and supervisors were facing mental harassment, salary delays, and unfair treatment.
Workers were reportedly being pressured to meet unrealistic targets, and threatened with termination for non-compliance.
Despite working under difficult conditions, employees claimed, they were denied job security and adequate support.
Many were allegedly forced to bear operational expenses themselves, while irregular salary payments had added to their distress.
The union said repeated representations to authorities had failed to yield action, emboldening contractors to continue “exploiting” workers.
It has urged the Punjab Government and the PSPCL management to intervene, ensure justice, and initiate a transparent probe into outsourcing practices. Union representatives warned that failure to address their grievances could lead to an intensified agitation, and state-wide protests.
