Court declares free electricity units for senior officers a policy benefit, not a constitutional or legal entitlement
LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has upheld the federal government’s decision to end free electricity units for senior officers in the power sector, ruling that such benefits are a policy-based facility rather than a legal or constitutional right.
Justice Malik Iqbal issued the detailed verdict on a petition filed by the GEPCO Officers Association, confirming that the withdrawal of free electricity units for Grade 17 to 22 officers working in WAPDA, DISCOs, GENCOs, NTDC, and related entities is not unlawful or unconstitutional.
The court observed that these organizations operate under government ownership, granting the state full authority to formulate and revise internal policies for employee benefits. It stated that courts cannot interfere in policy matters unless there is a clear violation of law.
According to the judgment, the federal cabinet committee’s decision to monetize and restructure electricity benefits falls within lawful administrative discretion. The court emphasized that free electricity units were previously provided as a facilitative perk, not a vested right.
The ruling further clarified that employees from Grade 1 to 16 will continue to receive free electricity units under the existing policy framework, indicating a tier-based benefits structure within the sector.
The court also noted that reforms aimed at reducing financial losses in the power sector are justified and do not affect the salary or employment status of officials.
The decision is seen as a reinforcement of the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline subsidies and reduce fiscal pressure on state-owned utilities.
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