Haryana power staff call 3-day strike against giving licence to private discom

The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission awarded Eleven Power a 25‑year licence to supply electricity in the Gurugram and Nuh districts. The decision, announced on Monday, allows the private company to operate as a distribution network alongside the state‑owned Haryana State Electricity Board. The move is part of a broader effort to increase competition in the power sector. The licence will cover a customer base of approximately 200,000 households and 5,000 commercial units, with the expectation that Eleven Power will invest in grid upgrades and renewable energy projects to meet rising demand.

Following the licence award, employees of the Haryana State Electricity Board announced plans for a three‑day strike. The staff argue that the decision will undermine the board’s position and could lead to job losses. They also claim that the private company’s entry will create a two‑tier pricing system that disadvantages low‑income consumers. The strike is scheduled to begin on Thursday, with workers demanding that the state government revisit the licence terms and provide safeguards for existing employees. If the strike proceeds, it could disrupt power supply to thousands of households and businesses in the affected districts.

The power minister has said that the state will contest the licence before a tribunal, citing concerns over the board’s ability to compete. Legal experts note that the dispute could set a precedent for other states considering private participation in power distribution. Meanwhile, consumers are watching closely, as any disruption could affect daily life and business operations. The government has promised to maintain a stable supply during the legal proceedings and is exploring interim measures such as temporary power purchase agreements to mitigate any impact on consumers.