UP government banned strikes in any form by employees and teachers in state universities till June 30 under the stringent Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA).Uttar Pradesh has around 30 state universities, besides 25 private and 10 deemed varsities. Under ESMA, employees in “essential services” are strictly prohibited from going on strike. It (ESMA) gives police the powers to arrest, without a warrant, anybody violating the Act’s provisions.According to an official release,”The ban will be applicable to all services in universities, constituent colleges and affiliated colleges.” The Act allows the states to choose the essential services on which ESMA can be invoked. Under its provisions, any person taking part in a strike shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term of up to six months. br ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------br Subscribe to OneIndia News Channel for latest updates on movies and related videos.