Sun Sep 07 23:45:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The INDIA bloc in Puducherry is launching protests against the proposed privatization of the Puducherry Electricity Department. This follows Adani Energy Solutions Limited’s announcement to incorporate a subsidiary, Adani Electricity Puducherry Limited, for electricity operations in the region. Despite government assurances of retaining majority stake and ongoing court challenges, the opposition claims the deal is being pushed through covertly, potentially undervaluing state assets. Electricity worker unions and opposition parties are mobilizing against the privatization, fearing it’s part of a larger trend of privatizing profitable state-owned entities.
**News Article:**
**Puducherry Gears Up for Protests as Adani’s Electricity Venture Sparks Outrage**
**PUDUCHERRY, September 8, 2025** – The Union Territory of Puducherry is bracing for widespread protests as the INDIA bloc initiates a series of agitations today against the controversial proposed privatization of the Puducherry Electricity Department. The protests are fueled by recent developments, including Adani Energy Solutions Limited (AESL) announcing the incorporation of Adani Electricity Puducherry Limited (AEPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary aimed at undertaking electricity business operations in the region.
The privatization plan, which had faced significant opposition in 2022, resurfaced amidst accusations of government secrecy and a potential undervaluation of state assets. Despite Home Minister A. Namassivayam’s previous statements that the government would retain a 51% stake and that the matter is subject to court review, opposition parties argue that AESL’s announcement signals a done deal.
“This is a clear sign that the privatization move is being pushed through,” stated former Chief Minister and Congress leader V. Narayanasamy, alleging that state assets worth ₹20,000 crore could be transferred to the Adani Group for a mere ₹500 crore.
Leader of Opposition and DMK convenor R. Siva echoed these concerns, calling the regulatory filing by Adani Group an expose of the government’s “false assurances.” He urged party members to participate in the INDIA bloc-led protests, which will include a siege of the Raj Nivas, torchlight rallies, and demonstrations at events attended by the Chief Minister and other ministers.
Adding to the unrest, the Electricity Engineers and Employees’ Privatisation/Corporatisation Protest Committee is actively mobilizing public opinion against what they see as a systematic effort to privatize profitable state entities. They, along with a coalition of trade union leaders, held a seminar last week, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the electricity sector in Puducherry.
The protests mark a significant challenge to the proposed privatization, highlighting concerns over transparency, asset valuation, and the potential impact on the public interest. The situation is ongoing, with the Madras High Court’s decision on the matter remaining a crucial factor in determining the future of the Puducherry Electricity Department.
First Piper 