COTEE Calls for Withdrawal of Worker Deployment Order in Tamil Nadu

The Central Organisation of Tamil Nadu Electricity Employees (COTEE) has formally requested the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) to retract its recent directive permitting the deployment of workers through the Overseas Manpower Corporation Ltd (OMCL). This appeal comes in response to orders issued following a note from the Chairman and Managing Director dated July 19, 2025, along with a memorandum from the Chief Engineer (Personnel) dated July 22, 2025.

In a letter addressed to the CMD, T. Jaishankar, general secretary of COTEE, asserted that the directive breaches existing tripartite agreements and government regulations. He emphasized that TNEB, a crucial public utility governed by the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, operates under settlements reached periodically between the administration, trade unions, and the government to address labour-related issues. According to Jaishankar, the latest workload agreement, signed on February 22, 2018, remains in effect.

Jaishankar highlighted that changes to service conditions must follow due notice to unions and involve discussions prior to implementation, as stipulated by the Industrial Disputes Act. He pointed out that in 2024, over 7,000 workload posts were discontinued, which contravened the current settlement.

COTEE criticized the directive that allows Superintending Engineers in distribution circles to hire personnel through OMCL. This action, they argue, contradicts the 2018 workload agreement and infringes upon Government Order No. 950, issued on August 8, 1990, which, based on a ruling from the Supreme Court, prohibits the engagement of contract workers in permanent positions.

“Continued deployment of contract labour in regular posts, despite government orders and court rulings, undermines fair labour practices,” the letter stated. COTEE cautioned that persistently employing contract workers without a new workload agreement or adequately filling sanctioned vacancies could lead to strained industrial relations.

In light of these concerns, COTEE has urged the CMD to revoke the cited orders and take necessary actions to restore a harmonious working environment within the electricity board. The organization’s call underscores the importance of adhering to established agreements and maintaining stability in the workforce.