Power sector employees in Jammu and Kashmir are up in arms against State Government decision to privatize distribution of electricity. The employees have threatened to intensify their protest against the move.The PDD employees staged massive protest in Srinagar, Budgam and other district headquarters.While calling the move anti-people they said that Kashmir being the conflict zone has suffered huge economic losses and paying hefty amounts as power fee to private companies will add to their hardships.The Government move has been rejected and resented by All Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Employees Union that asked Power Management to put the order in abeyance.Pertinently, State Administrative Council has privatized electricity metering in the state and granted sanction for a smart grid project.The SAC has accorded sanction to the engagement of the Rural Electricity Corporation Power Distribution Company Limited (RECPDCL) for carrying out power meter procurement, meter reading, billing and maintenance. All Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Employees Union has decided to intensify their protest demonstrations. “We vehemently oppose the government decision with regard to privatization of power as it will not only affect poor people but also hit daily rated workers working in the department,” the employees said. (CNS)