KMM launches protest over Electricity Act, other demands
The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) on Thursday began a two-day dharna outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office here to protest against the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act and to press for the fulfilment of other long-pending demands.
The protest witnessed participation from farmers and farm labourers across different parts of the district, who raised slogans against the Centre and the state government, accusing them of ignoring the concerns of the farming community.
Leaders of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha said the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act would open the power sector to private players. They alleged that the privatisation of electricity distribution would lead to a steep hike in power tariffs, making electricity unaffordable for farmers, farm labourers and the general public. They also expressed apprehensions that subsidies could be withdrawn in the future, which would severely impact agriculture and rural livelihoods.
Addressing the protesters, KMM leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said electricity is a basic necessity and should remain under public control. He warned that handing over the sector to private companies would prioritise profit over public welfare. The union reiterated that farmers are already burdened with rising input costs and that any increase in electricity rates would further deepen their financial distress.
The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha also criticised the government for failing to hold meaningful talks with farmer unions on the issue. Leaders said that despite repeated representations, their concerns have not been addressed so far. “If the government does not initiate dialogue and withdraw the proposed amendments, the agitation will be intensified,” Pandher said.
The union announced that if their demands are not met, it will organise a ‘rail roko’ protest on December 20 to draw the attention of the authorities. However, leaders added that they remain open to talks and hope the government will resolve the issue through dialogue.
