Power Board Pensioners Protest Withdrawal of Tariff Subsidy at Sundernagar Meeting.
Shimla:
A meeting of the HP State Electricity Board Pensioners Forum, Sundernagar Unit, was held at the Suket Cinema complex under the chairmanship of Unit President E.K.S. Jamwal. The meeting witnessed strong participation from retired employees and officers, who collectively raised serious concerns over recent decisions affecting pensioners.
The forum unanimously opposed the alleged arbitrary withdrawal of tariff subsidy on electricity bills for retirees from Class I and Class II positions. Members expressed resentment over what they termed as “unjustified discrimination,” stating that the move has effectively doubled their electricity bills.
Addressing the gathering, President E.K.S. Jamwal emphasized that categorizing pensioners after retirement into different classes is illogical and unfair. He clarified that the tariff subsidy provided in the state is regulated by the Electricity Regulatory Commission to ensure that consumers in Himachal Pradesh receive electricity at comparatively lower rates than neighboring states. He asserted that such benefits should be extended equally to all, without discrimination.
The forum also took strong note of the delay in clearing arrears for employees who had served on deputation in organizations such as BBMB and SJVNL. Despite earlier directions from the electricity management, no substantial action has been taken so far. The members urged the Board Chairman to intervene immediately and ensure the release of pending dues.
Further, the meeting welcomed decisions taken during a formal meeting held on April 2, 2026, with the Director (Finance) of the Electricity Board. These included the clearance of all pending medical bills, one-time arrear payments for pensioners aged between 70 and 75 years, and phased disbursement of revised leave encashment, gratuity, and service-related arrears for other retirees, particularly those who retired between January 2016 and April 2022. The forum urged authorities to expedite the implementation of these decisions.
Unit President K.S. Jamwal, General Secretary Sohan Singh Chauhan, and State Deputy General Secretary Jagmel Thakur also addressed the gathering, calling upon pensioners to stay united and actively participate in the membership drive.
Several prominent retired officials, including former Chief Engineers and senior employees, were present at the meeting, reflecting strong solidarity among the pensioners.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to continue advocating for the rights and welfare of pensioners across the region.
