Guwahati: The Assam government has imposed a six-month ban on strikes in the oil and gas sector across the state, invoking provisions of the Essential Services Maintenance (Assam) Act, 1980, to ensure uninterrupted operations in the strategically important industry.
According to a notification issued by the Political (A) Department, the Governor of Assam has exercised powers under Section 3 of the Act to prohibit strikes by officers, workers, contract labourers, tanker drivers and khalasis engaged in services related to oil fields, refineries and establishments involved in the production, supply or distribution of petroleum, petroleum products and natural gas.
The prohibition will come into effect from January 27, 2026, and will remain in force for a period of six months or until further orders, the notification said.
The government stated that the decision was taken in public interest, considering the essential nature of services provided by the oil and gas sector.
The order applies to all services covered under the definition of essential services in the Act, specifically those connected with oil fields and refineries, including natural gas operations.
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Copies of the notification have been forwarded to the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, senior police officials, district administrations, and top management of major public sector oil companies, including Oil India Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Limited, for information and necessary action.
The order has also been sent for publication in the Assam Gazette and wide publicity through the media.
The notification was issued with the approval of the Governor and signed by senior officials of the Home and Political Department.
