Srinagar, Jan 20: Power Development Department while cancelling all the leaves has asked employees to remain present on duties during winter spell.

The department has said that no leave of any kind shall be granted during the winter spell in favor of the employees or officers of the department.

Sources said  that Muhammad Aijaz, Managing Director Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited has issued an order cancelling all the leaves of employees and besides asking higher up not to grant any kind of leave during the winter spell.

The MD has said that at a time when smooth power supply is the top priority, it has been observed that officers at Circle Divisional and Sub-Divisional level of KPCL are repeatedly applying for casual leaves especially during winter months.

“As such, it is impressed upon all the officers/ officers to maintain their headquarters. Besides, leave of any kind if granted by any controlling officer stands canceled with immediate effect. Further all the controlling officers are hereby directed not to grant sanction leave of any kind to any officer/ official henceforth. The permission in rarest of the rare circumstances on medical grounds shall be granted by the corporate office only. Any deviation of circular instructions shall be viewed seriously and defaulting officer shall be liable for disciplinary action under relevant conduct Rules,” reads the circular.

In reaction, Abdul Rashid Samboori, JKEEU State President said that the order issued by the MD is ‘unfair’ and ‘irrational’.

He said the order will put the staff of KPDCL especially class 4th and lower non-gazetted to great inconvenience as they will have to run from pillar to post right from Sub Divisional Office level to Corporate Office for mere sanction of leave even on medical grounds.

He appealed MD to re-consider his decision in the interest of those employees who sometimes need leave on medical grounds. (KNT)