Protests were held across Punjab for a third consecutive day on Wednesday. (File photo)Power employees in Punjab have extended their “tools‑down and pen‑down” strike by two more days—until August 15—in protest against the delay in issuing the circular for 25 demands accepted by the state government on June 2.The agitation began on August 11 and is being held under the collective banner of Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) Employees Joint Forum, Bijli Mulazam Ekta Manch, Grid Union, and Powercom & Transco Pensioners Union (AITUC Punjab).Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) Employees Joint Forum, union leader Raghvir Singh Ramgarh said there was no communication with the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd (PSPCL) during the past three days, prompting the decision to prolong the strike.“We will continue our agitation until the circular is issued.”PSPCL has deployed engineers at grid stations during the strike, while around 5,500 contractual employees are handling complaints. Some consumers have demanded the imposition of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) to end the strike, but union leaders maintained that the responsibility lies with the government and management.Gurpreet Singh Mehdoodan, President, Ludhiana division, PSEB Employees Federation (AITUC), said,“We were threatened with ESMA, but we went ahead with the strike. Despite agreeing to our demands, the authorities have failed to implement them and are misleading the public.”Story continues below this adProtests were held across Punjab for a third consecutive day on Wednesday. Convenor of Bijli Ekta Manch, Gurpreet Singh Gadiwind, said resentment among employees was rising due to the government’s inaction.On Independence Day, August 15, power workers plan to wave black flags at government representatives and officials attending flag‑hoisting ceremonies, both inside PSPCL premises and other locations. The unions have urged all employees to remain united until their demands are formally implemented.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd