High Court suspends govt order ending free electricity for employees

The court has barred the federal government from enforcing the decision. The Peshawar High Court issued a written order on a petition filed by TESCO employees. The court suspended notifications issued on 5 December 2023 and 6 May 2026.

The court also issued notices to all concerned parties. The next hearing has been scheduled for 18 June.

The petitioners’ lawyer told the court that free electricity is part of the employment contract. He argued that the government cannot withdraw it without legal justification.

He said the decision violates Articles 4, 18, 24, and 25 of the Constitution of Pakistan. These articles protect basic rights of citizens and employees.

The court was informed that the facility was withdrawn during the caretaker government period. However, it was argued that a caretaker setup does not have authority for major policy changes.

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The petition claimed that such decisions affect employee rights directly. Therefore, the move is being challenged as unlawful.

The petitioners said that TESCO is an independent corporate entity. They argued that the government notification does not match its internal rules.

It was also stated that organizational regulations cannot be ignored. This has raised legal questions over the notification’s validity.

After the court order, employees expressed happiness over the decision. Many welcomed it as immediate relief.

Legal experts called it an important step for government employees’ rights. However, they also said the final decision will come after further hearings.

The court has given temporary relief to employees. But the main issue is still under legal process. The case shows a clash between government policy and employee rights. The final outcome will depend on future hearings.