India: Power sector employees plan nationwide strike and protests Feb. 3

Event

Power sector workers affiliated with the All India Power Engineers’ Federation (AIPEF) plan to strike nationwide Feb. 3. Participants intend to denounce the central government’s proposed Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2020, which aims to privatize electricity distribution companies. Participation in the strike is unclear, though some media sources report that several hundred thousand people may take part.

The strike may cause power outages, possibly resulting in business and essential service disruptions.

Workers plan to hold protests Feb. 3. Demonstrations are likely in urban centers, especially district and state capitals. Protesters may rally at government buildings, such as electricity board offices, as well as monuments and public squares. Security personnel will likely monitor protests and may try to break up more disruptive gatherings. While clashes between police and protesters are unlikely, isolated skirmishes cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may block or march along roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible skirmishes. Heed all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near rallies. Monitor local media sources for updates on protest details, as organizers may not announce them in advance. Charge devices beforehand and arrange alternative power supplies as a precaution.