Jharkhand Power Workers’ Union Flags Wage Discrimination Against Computer Operators, Demands ‘Highly Skilled’ Status

The Jharkhand Urja Vikas Shramik Sangh has taken a strong stand against alleged wage discrimination faced by computer operators and data entry operators working in Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL). Union central president Ajay Rai has sent a detailed memorandum by email to the company’s Chairman-cum-Managing Director, demanding that these workers be reclassified from the ‘Skilled’ to the ‘Highly Skilled’ category and paid the corresponding minimum wages.

Rai questioned why employees performing the same nature of work, carrying the same responsibilities and possessing similar qualifications are paid differently merely because of the mode of their appointment — regular payroll versus outsourcing. He argued that such disparity cannot be justified when the actual work, workplace and level of responsibility remain identical.

The union stressed that the role of computer operators in JBVNL goes far beyond routine typing or basic data entry. These workers handle technical and specialised tasks across key departments including the technical wing, works and materials management, project wing, finance and accounts, commercial and revenue, and HR & establishment. Their responsibilities include operating SAP ERP, preparing advanced Excel and MIS reports, data verification and reconciliation, billing and revenue records, tender documents, departmental reports and official correspondence.

Given the technical and multi-dimensional nature of the work, the union has demanded an objective assessment of skill levels and reclassification of computer operators as ‘Highly Skilled’. It has also called for a comparative evaluation of designations, qualifications, tenure, workplace and responsibilities of both payroll and outsourced operators so that unjustified wage gaps can be removed. Decisions on the effective date of benefits and payment of arrears have also been sought.

In the memorandum, Rai cited provisions of the Code on Wages (Jharkhand) Rules, 2021 and several judicial pronouncements, including the Supreme Court’s ruling in State of Punjab vs Jagjit Singh on the principle of equal pay for equal work, along with other relevant cases.

The union has asked the CMD to issue a clear, reasoned and time-bound order based on facts, applicable rules and court judgments. It has also requested an early meeting with its representatives to discuss all related issues and communicate decisions in writing.

Ajay Rai said the union remains committed to protecting the dignity, fair wages and just rights of workers. He urged the JBVNL management to stop delaying and take concrete steps to address the long-pending demands of computer operators.