Chief Secretary Kundra clarifies position on power sector reforms
dismisses privatization rumours
07/05/2026
Leh, May 07(KIP)-In response to the ongoing rumours and misinformation circulating in society regarding the alleged privatization of the Power Department in Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, Chief Secretary, Ladakh, today addressed a press briefing at Civil Secretariat, Leh to clarify the situation. The briefing was also attended by Secretary, Power, Rudra P. Goud and Chief Engineer, LPDD, Tsewang Paljor.
Addressing the media, the Chief Secretary strongly condemned and categorically refuted the claims regarding privatization, describing such rumours as baseless and misleading. He emphasized that the administration remains fully committed to strengthening the existing power infrastructure and ensuring the provision of reliable and affordable electricity to the people of Ladakh.
The Chief Secretary clarified that no decision on privatization has been taken by the Administration. He further urged the public not to be swayed by unverified information and to refrain from spreading misconceptions. He assured that no significant policy decisions would be implemented without thorough consultation, dialogue, and engagement with all stakeholders, including employees and the public. He emphasized that the Administration is committed to maintaining transparency and that any reforms in the power sector will be carried out only after extensive deliberation and in the best interests of Ladakh.
Shri Kundra explained that the Administration has already been working with agencies such as NHPC, Power Grid and other power sector organizations for strengthening power infrastructure in Ladakh. He stated that the ongoing discussions are exploratory in nature at initial stage and aimed at understanding various models under the framework of the Indian Electricity Act, 2023 to further improve power generation, transmission, and distribution across the Union Territory.
He clarified that the objective behind such discussions is to improve efficiency, modernize infrastructure, enhance power availability, and boost revenue generation without compromising customer and employee interest. He further stated that the Administration is exploring ways to strengthen hydro-power potential, improve electricity distribution systems, and enhance financial sustainability while preserving Ladakh’s unique cultural and environmental identity.
The Chief Secretary strongly rebutted concerns regarding employee welfare and assured that the interests of employees would remain fully protected. He stated that no employee would lose their job, service benefits, pension, or seniority due to any future reforms. He urged employees and the public to directly approach the Administration in case of doubts instead of relying on rumours and misinformation.
Shri Kundra also informed the media that issues related to pending promotions and Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) in all the Departments including the Power Department shall be addressed in next one month. He stated that meetings have already been held in this regard and that matters related to seniority, promotions of long-serving employees, and eligibility conditions linked to the 2021 restructuring are under consideration for early resolution.
Chief Engineer, Power Development Department, Tsewang Paljor, addressing the media explained the provisions of Section 131 of the Electricity Act, 2003. He stated that reforms under the Act are aimed at improving operational efficiency and financial sustainability of power utilities, and clarified that the Administration’s efforts are intended to strengthen the sector rather than cause any loss to the public or employees.