The Odisha Energy Department has sought police intervention to ensure strict enforcement of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) on employees of all power utilities in the state. The move comes in response to recent protests by engineers of Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Ltd (TPCODL) over routine transfers.

The state government had invoked ESMA on October 21, 2024, for a period of six months to prevent strikes and maintain industrial peace. The order, applicable to key power entities such as GRIDCO, Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL), Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC), Odisha Power Generation Corporation (OPGC), and power distribution companies, will remain in effect until April 20, 2025.

In a letter to Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania on Friday, Energy Department Principal Secretary Vishal Dev highlighted the protest staged by degree and diploma engineers of TPCODL outside the company’s corporate office. The demonstration, triggered by opposition to routine transfers, led to concerns over law and order.

The department has urged the police to take necessary action to ensure that ESMA is implemented effectively, preventing any disruption in power supply and maintaining essential services across the state. The government’s decision to invoke ESMA underscores its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted power services and industrial stability.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further measures may be taken if needed to prevent any escalation of protests.