Keeping in mind the heavy violence in the state over the CAA Act, the Assam government has banned strikes for six months. From 31 December, 2019, the oil and gas sector employees will not be allowed to call any strike.
Officers, workmen, contract labourers, drivers and the helpers of tankers are prohibited from protesting and holding demonstrations.
The State Government is exercising the powers under section 3 of the Essential Services Maintenance (Assam) Act, 1980. This Act prohibits strikes in the state by all those involved in the services of oil fields, gas sector or refinery, stated an official statement.
This move has been taken in public interest. Any service in any oil field or refinery of any establishment or undertaking, which deals with the production or supply of petroleum products— including natural gas— will fall under the purview of this order.
Last month, the Assam government warned all State Government employees from posting political views on social media. According to the Government, any employees found posting political views on social media will be penalised.
Many people on social media scrutinised this move by the Assam government.
In another incident, a Central Government employee was penalised for tweeting anti-CAA comments through a government portal.
According to media reports, in the agitation and protests that took place recently, four people were killed by the police.
