LUCKNOW, Dec. 28 -- Power sector employees in Uttar Pradesh have opposed an order issued by the UP Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) to discontinue the concessional electricity facility provided to power staff. The decision has triggered widespread resentment among employees, who held meetings and announced a statewide protest. The Sanyukt Sangharsh Samiti has decided that power employees, junior engineers, and engineers will mark January 1, 2026 as 'protest day' to oppose power privatisation, alleged oppressive actions, and the withdrawal of concessional electricity benefits granted under law, committee's chairman Shailendra Dubey said here on Saturday. As per the order issued by UPPCL on December 22, smart meters must be installed at the residences of all electricity employees and pensioners by December 31, failing which adverse action would be taken against the employees and officers concerned. Dubey asserted that the concessional electricity facility for power employees was protected under statutory provisions, including the Electricity Reforms Act, 1999, UP Transfer Scheme, 2000, and the Electricity Act, 2003. "Any interference with this benefit, it said, would constitute a violation of these laws and would not be accepted," he warned. The Sangharsh Samiti has written to the UPPCL chairman, referring to these statutory protections, and warned that any coercion to install meters or any punitive action against employees or officers would invite a strong response, for which the management would be solely responsible....