Delhi govt invokes ESMA in view of tomorrow's strike

In view of tomorrow's nation-wide strike called by a number of trade unions, Delhi government today clamped the Essential Services Maintenance Act on all power companies in the city to ensure that there is no disruption in electricity supply in the national Capital.

"Delhi government has clamped ESMA on all power companies including generation, distribution and other power companies in view of the proposed strike tomorrow," a statement issued by the Chief Minister's office said.

It said the ESMA would remain in force for next six months.

Banking, insurance and industry are likely to be affected tomorrow with all major unions calling a countrywide strike to protest the "anti-labour" policies of the government, rising prices and disinvestment of PSUs.

Unions leaders, who have rejected appeals to desist from the strike, said all 11 major trade unions including Congress- affiliated INTUC, Shiv Sena-backed Bharatiya Kamgar Sena and UPA ally Indian Union Muslim League's trade-wing STU would join hands to make the strike a success.

The unions are also demanding no contractorisation of work -- permanent or perennial nature, amendment of Minimum Wages Act, assured pension for all and compulsory registration of trade union among others.

Officials in the Delhi government said the decision to clamp ESMA on utilities involved in power generation transmission and distribution was taken to ensure that there was no disruption in power supply.