The Punjab chapter of Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has warned of observing a black day if the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2025 is introduced in Parliament during the ongoing session.
The farmers’ forum expressed serious concerns over the proposed legislation, stating it could lead to large-scale privatisation, commercialisation, and centralisation of India’s power sector.
Joint Protests Planned With Trade and Labour Groups
SKM announced that it will hold a joint meeting with trade unions and labour organisations on 13 December to plan intensified protests against the bill.
The forum claims that the amendment threatens the integrated and socially-driven electricity system developed over decades, potentially transferring the most profitable segments of power distribution and generation to private corporations, while leaving the public sector to shoulder losses and social responsibilities.
Concerns Over Impact on Rural and Poor Households
SKM warned that the removal of cross-subsidies will likely increase electricity tariffs for rural and low-income households, further deepening inequality.
“Farmers, workers, and the general public could face heightened financial stress,” the forum said, adding that the bill appears driven by corporate interests and is anti-farmer, anti-worker, and anti-people.
Farmers’ Forum Stands Firm
The SKM emphasized that it will continue to mobilize protests and awareness campaigns if the bill is tabled, urging lawmakers to consider the social and economic consequences for millions of rural households.
