TV
A bizarre case of electricity billing dispute has surfaced from Gothakeli village under Dhepaguda panchayat in Gajapati district, where a family without an active electricity connection has reportedly received a power bill of Rs 10,470.
The bill has been issued in the name of Surendra Mallick, a resident who passed away nearly 15 years ago. His visually impaired mother and son, who currently live in the house, have alleged that there is no electricity supply to their residence. The family survives on daily wage work, and their house was recently allotted under a housing scheme, but without any power connection.
Despite having no meter or electricity usage, a backlog bill amounting to Rs 10,470 was generated in October 2021 under Mallick's name. When approached for a connection, the electricity department reportedly declined, citing the pending dues.
The Chandragiri electricity office clarified that a connection had been recorded under the Kutir Jyoti Yojana in Surendra’s name back in 2009. However, no bill has ever been paid since. The department has stated that if there is no meter and no usage, they will visit the village to investigate the matter and take necessary steps regarding the connection.
“I cannot go anywhere due to my condition. I cannot see. I don’t even have rice,” said Sashi Mallick, wife of deceased Surendra.
“As per our records, he (Surendra) had an electricity connection under Kutir Jyoti Yojana in 2009. The bill has accumulated as he has not paid any bill. We will visit their house and inquire. Accordingly, action will be taken,” said Sangram Sahoo, engineer, Chandragiri electricity department.
