India, Oct. 13 -- The Odisha Energy Department has sought strict enforcement of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against employees of power utilities amid an ongoing strike and protests that could disrupt electricity supply across the state.

In a letter dated October 12, 2026, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, Vishal Kumar Dev, urged the Director General and Inspector General of Police to direct the concerned police authorities to ensure strict enforcement of ESMA against power utility employees in the event of any violation.

The letter refers to an ongoing demonstration and strike by members of the Nikhila Odisha Bidyut Mazdoor Mahasangha (NOBMM), affiliated with BMS Odisha, under the leadership of its ...