Noida protest over illegal power connections enters 15th day

A protest against the power discom's action on illegal electricity connections in colonies along the Hindon floodplain entered its 15th day on Monday, with around 35 people observing an indefinite fast. Residents from around 42 colonies are demanding a written assurance from the government on power supply, saying verbal promises are not enough. The agitation near Parthala in Sector 122 will continue until a written guarantee is given, protesters said.

The discom's enforcement drive since August disconnected thousands of unauthorised connections, affecting residents who say legitimate consumers also lost power. Officials from PVVNL, Noida, said no further disconnections are happening and around 2,000 connections have already been released. Cases of temporary supply are being examined individually. Meanwhile, NDTV reports that Sukhbir Khalifa said 4 lakh to 5 lakh families have lived in the Pushta Park area for 10 to 12 years without electricity, water or basic facilities.

A discom official, speaking anonymously, said public pressure and the law-and-order situation led to remaining cases being dealt with separately. The discom has spoken to protesters and is taking up their concerns, but a decision may take time. The protest continues with no end in sight.