ANEFWA to start agitation from August 30 over non-payment of salary

DIMAPUR — The All Nagaland Electricity Field Workers Association (ANEFWA) has announced that it would start an agitation from August 30 onwards, over non-payment of salary.

The association in a press release stated that it had, earlier on August 14, submitted an ultimatum to the state government demanding immediate release of salary to the 66 regularised Operation and Maintenance Staff (OMS), with August 29 as the deadline.

“Despite the above ultimatum being served, the government has not taken any action, which displays the unconcerned attitude towards the members of this association,” the ANEFWA said.

The association pointed out that the government had made the field workers under the Department of Power as operation and maintenance staff and regularised them through an order. The government had also directed the OMS to perform their duties in their respective place of posting for maintenance of power lines since January 2023, it stated.

“However their (OMS) salaries have not been paid which is uncalled for and exploitive in the highest manner,” the association said and added that the passivity on the part of the government has compelled the association to go for agitation.

“It is important to note that the association’s actions are driven by a sincere commitment to the welfare of its members and the continued provision of electricity services,” it stated.

In view of the proposed agitation, the ANEFWA also apprised the district administration and general public to “bear with us during the time of protest.”

The association further requested the general public to support its “genuine cause” in advocating the rights and well-being of the “dedicated field workers.”

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