Chandigarh, Oct. 22 -- The administration has banned strikes by employees of Chandigarh Power Distribution Limited (CPDL) for the next six months, invoking the Haryana Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA), 1974, citing concerns over possible disruption in electricity supply during the festive season.

The order, issued by the home department on October 19, declares employment with CPDL an essential service under Section 3 of the Act, as extended to Chandigarh, and prohibits strikes under Section 4A for six months from the date of issuance.

The move follows information received from CPDL that the UT Powermen Union Chandigarh had called for mass agitation on October 19. The administration expressed apprehension that the agitation co...