Tamil Nadu electricity unions threaten strike over smart meters and power policies

Trade unions from the DMK and AIADMK have formed a joint action committee to oppose the TVK government’s electricity policies in Tamil Nadu. The unions have issued a strike notice, warning of an indefinite walkout starting after November 2 if their demands are not met.

The protests target the implementation of a smart meter project, which unions claim will negatively impact farmers, traders, and low-income households. They are also opposing proposed public-private partnership (PPP) models for power generation and transmission, arguing these sectors should remain under public ownership. Additionally, the unions are demanding the withdrawal of five-year fixed-term employment schemes.

Simultaneously, opposition leaders have criticized the government for an alleged artificial power shortage and poor planning. Critics, including Udhayanidhi Stalin and V Senthil Balaji, have accused the administration of relying on expensive open-market electricity purchases—at rates as high as Rs 35 per unit—rather than utilizing state-owned generation. AIADMK leadership has further alleged a “mega scam” regarding power purchase agreements and called for their cancellation.