Punjab government employees call August 27 ‘maha bandh’ over DA, OPS demands

Government offices and schools across Ludhiana are expected to face disruptions on August 27 as employee and pensioner organisations observe a statewide 'Maha Bandh'. Staff will abstain from work to protest against the administration's continued failure to address long-standing grievances, including the release of an 18 percent pending dearness allowance instalment, implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission, and restoration of the Old Pension Scheme.

The demonstration will impact Punjab State Power Corporation Limited offices, though essential power supply and field operations are expected to remain unaffected. Government schools may have only two or three teachers present, with the Education Department Sangharsh Committee appealing to all personnel to join the protest. Organisers have said the shutdown is confined to government establishments and will not disrupt public movement or commercial activity.

The PSEB Employees Federation has extended support, with state secretary Gurpreet Singh Mehdudaan saying the government has failed to honour commitments. Power sector personnel have warned they will intensify their agitation in September if no concrete resolution is delivered. The protest comes after employee unions alleged the state government failed to fulfil assurances made before coming to power.