HC questions Power Distribution Companies on Job Disparity

Hyderabad: Hyderabad High Court on Wednesday questioned the Telangana electricity companies and power distribution houses under what modalities the selection of candidates hailing from Telangana is made for various jobs.

The court was hearing a petition filed by Challa Narasimha Reddy and others challenging the disparity in appointments in the power companies. The petitioners expressed anguish over the amendments which would hold them back from taking part in the ongoing recruitment for the posts of assistant executive engineers in the power companies. They stated that the amendments were brought by the power distribution companies in August 2015.

The petitioner's counsel K Lakshmi Narasimha argued that the power companies have divided Telangana into north zone and south zone. Secondly, people who are born or completed their study for more than six years in any of these zones are considered local candidates. The ratio of recruitment among local and non-locals is 7:3.

Contending that these rules have been amended in favour of Telangana candidates, the counsel stated that as per Article 16(2) of the Constitution, the power to change local status and to reserve posts is vested only with the Parliament.

Further hearing will be held on Friday.