PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court has suspended a government notification that aimed to terminate the free electricity facility for employees in Grade 17 and above.
In a written order issued following a recent hearing on a petition concerning the termination of this benefit for employees of the Tribal Area Electric Supply Company, the court directed that the government’s notifications dated December 5, 2023, and May 6, 2026, be put on hold.
The court has also issued regular notices to all parties involved in the case and has adjourned further proceedings until June 18.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer argued that the provision of free electricity is an essential part of the employment contract for these employees. Therefore, the government’s unilateral decision to terminate this benefit is completely illegal and violates Articles 4, 18, 24, and 25 of the Constitution of Pakistan.
The court was informed that the previous caretaker government had terminated the free electricity benefit, yet this interim administration lacks the legal authority to impact the fundamental rights of employees with such significant policy changes.
The lawyer emphasized that Tesco operates as an independent corporate body; thus, the government’s unilateral notification does not align with the company’s established procedures, rules, and regulations.
Read also: Peshawar, employees to receive one month’s salary as bonus, major announcement
