Tangedco contract workers demand permanent positions in Tamil Nadu

Contract workers at the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) protested on Tuesday, demanding regularisation of their employment. The workers gathered in front of the Chief Engineer's office to voice their concerns. They argued that they play crucial roles in maintaining power transmission lines, addressing power outages, and ensuring a stable power supply, especially during storms. Despite their contributions, they feel neglected by the government, which has refused to regularise their positions. The workers highlighted their involvement in restoring power after severe weather events, including the Thane and Ockhi Cyclones. They also mentioned that in cases of accidents on the job, like electrocution, the government does not provide compensation. Tensions increased when the Electricity Minister claimed that Tangedco does not employ contract workers. The protesters are calling on the ruling DMK party to keep its promise from the 2021 election to make long-time contract workers permanent and fill the 65,000 vacancies in the department.