The Mahavitaran employees strike in Vasai has entered its second day, with workers protesting against the Maharashtra government’s decision to privatize and restructure its power companies — Mahavitaran, Mahapareshan, and Mahagenco.

The strike, which began on October 9 and will continue until October 11, has received a strong response from employees. Nearly 60 to 65 percent of Mahavitaran staff in Vasai have joined the protest, raising slogans and beating drums in a display of unity.

Why the Mahavitaran Employees Are Protesting

The employees’ union has listed several key demands for the government to address. Their primary opposition is to the privatization of 329 sub-centers and the implementation of a tariff-based competitive bidding system.

Their other major demands include:

  • Immediate recruitment to fill vacant positions.
  • Implementation of a new pension scheme.
  • Withdrawal of decisions related to the privatization of hydroelectric projects.
  • Stopping private companies from taking control of public sector power services.

The protesters argue that these decisions would harm job security and affect the quality and affordability of electricity for citizens.

“Strike Was Inevitable,” Says Union Leader

Speaking to local reporters, Sanjay Tidke, Secretary of the Vasai Circle, stated that the employees had been agitating since September 22. Despite multiple rounds of talks, the government failed to find a resolution.

“We were left with no option but to strike. Mahavitaran will not be handed over to private capitalists — that is our firm stand,” Tidke said.

Allegations of Favoritism in Land Allocation

Adding to the controversy, Nitin Patil, President of the Maharashtra State Backward Class Electricity Circle, alleged that the government has shown bias in land allocation.

“For the past 15 years, we’ve been requesting land for a switching center in Kaman, but our proposal was rejected. Strangely, a private company was recently granted land in the same area for power generation. This is a clear injustice,” Patil remarked.

Power Supply in Vasai-Virar to Remain Unaffected

Despite the ongoing Mahavitaran employees strike in Vasai, company officials have assured that citizens in the Vasai-Virar region will not face power outages.

According to Mahavitaran’s statement, 113 linemen and four technical engineers have been assigned to maintain emergency services at 30 sub-stations across the area.

Essential equipment and materials are on standby to address any power failures immediately.

Residents can report electricity issues by calling the toll-free number 7875760602.

Public Reaction and Wider Impact

Local citizens have shown mixed reactions to the protest. While some sympathize with the workers’ concerns over privatization, others worry about possible disruptions to power services if the strike extends.

Energy sector experts have noted that this movement could set a precedent for other public utility workers across Maharashtra, especially if the government does not engage in productive dialogue soon.

For official updates, follow the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) website.

Conclusion

The Mahavitaran employees strike in Vasai highlights a growing concern over privatization in Maharashtra’s energy sector. With thousands of employees standing firm on their demands, all eyes are now on the government’s next move. Whether this standoff ends in negotiation or escalation will determine the future of the state’s public electricity services.