GUWAHATI: A notification has been issued to prohibit strikes within Assam by the Governor which specifically targets Fair Price Shops Dealers, acknowledging their vital role in the distribution of PDS Commodities to consumers under NFSA beneficiaries.
This development comes under-exercising powers conferred by Section 3 of the Essential Services Maintenance (Assam) Act 1980 (No.41 of 2980), by which the ban is enforced for a duration of 6 months from the issuance of this notification, with the possibility of extension until further orders.
It has been stated that such a prohibition is necessary and expedient in the public interest and has categorised the dealers, suppliers, distributors, carriers, contractors, and drivers involved in the service of the Public Distribution System as falling under the Essential Services category.
This move is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted services related to the distribution of essential commodities under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and maintaining the smooth functioning of the Public Distribution System during the specified period. The Essential Services Maintenance (Assam) Act 1980, Section 2 clause (b) para (ii) & (vii), defines the covered services falling within the ambit of Essential Services, justifying the imposition of this temporary restriction on strikes within the specified sector.