UP Government Invokes ESMA To Curb Proposed Power Sector Strike
The employees of UPPCL and its discoms are on warpath with the state government against privatization plans
In a bid to maintain uninterrupted power supply amid looming protests, the Uttar Pradesh Energy Department has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) across all Discoms under the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd (UPPCL). The move comes ahead of a threatened statewide strike by power employees, opposing the proposed privatization of electricity distribution in 42 districts under Agra and Varanasi zones.
ESMA has been enforced for six months across all areas of power generation, transmission, and distribution, covering Madhyanchal, Purvanchal, Paschimanchal, Dakshinanchal, and KESCO. With this, all forms of strikes and protests by power sector employees have been banned during this period.
The government’s decision follows growing unrest among power employees protesting against the privatization plans, especially targeting the Purvanchal and Dakshinanchal Electricity Distribution Corporations. Anticipating disruptions, UPPCL on Friday issued a stern directive allowing termination of employees—without a hearing—if they are found disrupting power supply.
Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, in a high-level video conference with divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and police officials, instructed preparation of a detailed contingency plan to ensure public services remain unaffected and law and order is maintained.
The administration has reiterated its commitment to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and warned of strict action against those attempting to hinder operations.
