The Lahore High Court (LHC) has dismissed a petition challenging the government’s decision to end free electricity units. The ruling supports the monetisation policy introduced for power sector officers.
In its detailed judgment, the LHC stated that removing free electricity units for officers from Grade 17 to 22 is legal. The court found no violation of constitutional rights. It clarified that such benefits are not permanent legal entitlements.
The petition was filed by the GEPCO Officers Association. It opposed the government’s move to monetise electricity benefits. These benefits were previously given to employees of WAPDA and related organisations. These include DISCOs, GENCOs, NTDC, and PITC.
Justice Malik Javid Iqbal Wains announced the verdict. He said the provision of free electricity was a facility, not a guaranteed right. The LHC emphasized that the government has full authority to make policy decisions. This applies to institutions under its control.
The court further noted that the monetisation policy was approved by the federal cabinet committee. It ruled that the policy is neither illegal nor unconstitutional. The LHC also observed that the decision does not harm employees financially. It does not affect their salaries, job status, or service terms.
According to the ruling, no constitutional rights of employees were violated. The LHC stated that courts should avoid interfering in administrative policies. It stressed that such decisions fall within the government’s domain.
The judgment also highlighted the need to reduce financial losses in the power sector. It linked the policy to broader efforts for economic stability. The LHC concluded that the measure is within the legal framework.
Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Laghari, Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), welcomed the decision. He said the move ends a long-standing practice. He added that it fulfills a public demand for fairness.
Reports suggest around 120,000 employees benefited from free or subsidised electricity. These employees belonged to several state-owned organisations. These include WAPDA, NTDC, DISCOs, GENCOs, CPPA, and PEPCO.
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The LHC ruling marks a key step in reforming the power sector. It supports government efforts to improve financial discipline and transparency.
