Power Engineers Federation Announces Nationwide Strike Against Proposed Electricity Bill 2025
Dehradun: The All India Power Engineers Federation (AIPEF) has taken a firm stand against the proposed Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, announcing a nationwide strike scheduled for March 10. The protest comes as the bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament during the ongoing Budget Session, sparking significant opposition from power sector stakeholders.
Federation Condemns Lack of Democratic Consultation
At a meeting held in Dehradun on Saturday, AIPEF chairperson Shailendra Dubey addressed the media, expressing strong concerns over the government's approach. "Despite numerous objections submitted by power sector employees, engineers, farmers' organisations, and consumer groups, the Centre appears to be pushing the Bill without proper discussion and democratic consultation," Dubey stated.
He emphasized that when views were invited on the proposed amendments, it was the government's responsibility to transparently disclose how those objections were examined and addressed. "Ignoring these objections and rushing the legislation undermines the democratic process. If passed, the Bill will open doors to further privatisation in the power sector, which is not in the public interest," Dubey added, warning that such policies could weaken the public electricity system and adversely affect electricity employees, farmers, and consumers.
Opposition to Land Diversion for Private Sector
In addition to the national bill, the federation has voiced strong opposition to the Uttarakhand government's decision to transfer 76.7 hectares of land belonging to hydel power projects of Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited at Dakpathar and Dhalipur. This land is being allocated to the private sector through the Uttarakhand Infrastructure and Industrial Development Board.
"Diversion of land meant for strategic hydel projects will seriously affect the development of important projects such as Lakhwar, Kishau, and other Yamuna basin hydel projects and will be strongly resisted," Dubey asserted. He also highlighted similar actions by the Punjab government in selling power sector land and victimizing office-bearers who raise objections, indicating a broader pattern of resistance across states.
Implications and Broader Context
The AIPEF's protest underscores growing tensions in India's power sector, with fears that privatization could lead to:
- Increased electricity costs for consumers
- Job insecurity for power sector employees
- Reduced access for farmers and rural communities
- Potential delays in critical infrastructure projects
As the March 10 strike date approaches, the federation is mobilizing support nationwide, calling for a reevaluation of the bill to ensure it aligns with public interest and democratic principles. The outcome of this protest could significantly influence the legislative process and future policies in India's energy sector.
