The Mohan Majhi-led BJP government has once again proved its commitment to maintaining law and order by strictly enforcing the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), 1988 in the power sector. Unlike the previous government, which failed to act against strikes and disruptions, this administration is ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply for the people and industries of Odisha.
On October 21, 2024, the Odisha government invoked ESMA for six months on key power utilities, including GRIDCO, OPTCL, OHPC, OPGC, and Tata Power distribution companies, preventing any strikes that could destabilize the state’s electricity supply. However, despite this order, protests have escalated, forcing the government to take stricter measures.
Escalating Protests and Government Response
🔴 TPCODL Engineers’ Protest – Degree and diploma engineers of Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Ltd (TPCODL) recently staged a dharna outside the corporate office in Bhubaneswar, opposing routine transfer orders.
🔴 Law & Order Situation – Protestors blocked exits and created a hostage-like situation, preventing even female employees from leaving after office hours. The tension lasted until 9 AM the next day, forcing police intervention.
🔴 Action by the Government – The company lodged FIRs against four association leaders and seven engineers for unruly behavior, while the Deputy CM K V Singh Deo intervened, modifying the transfer orders as a goodwill gesture.
🔴 Escalation of Protests – Despite this leniency, protestors have now planned a large-scale agitation starting February 11, 2025, demanding withdrawal of disciplinary charges against the 11 accused officials.
Odisha Government’s Strong Stand on ESMA Enforcement
Principal Secretary for Energy Vishal Kumar Dev has written to DGP Y B Khurania, urging strict enforcement of ESMA to prevent further disruptions.
🟢 No Compromise on Public Interest – The BJP government is making it clear that no protest will be allowed to disrupt power supply in Odisha.
🟢 Industrial Peace is a Priority – Odisha’s growing industries rely on stable power supply. The government’s proactive enforcement of ESMA is a major step in ensuring business continuity and investor confidence.
🟢 Law and Order Will Be Maintained – The DGP has been directed to take stringent action against any official or association violating ESMA.
🟢 No More Ignoring Employee Indiscipline – While previous governments turned a blind eye to such incidents, the Mohan Majhi administration is acting decisively to ensure accountability and discipline in the power sector.
How This Government is Doing Better Than Previous Administrations
Odisha’s BJP Government: Strict action against strikes, firm ESMA enforcement, quick intervention to resolve conflicts.
Previous Odisha’s Government: Ignored law violations, allowed frequent power sector disruptions, failed to enforce ESMA effectively.
Under the Majhi government, Odisha is moving towards a more efficient, disciplined, and investment-friendly energy sector. By prioritizing stability and law enforcement, this administration is building a stronger Odisha that can meet its ambitious development goals.
This is the decisive leadership Odisha needed—and the BJP government is delivering it effectively.
Prasanta Patnaik