Tata Power faces backlash over tariff hike plan; consumers' outfit stages protest in Bhubaneswar

Odisha Bidyut Upabhokta Mahasangha (a local outfit) organised a demonstration on Friday at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, objecting to the policies implemented by Tata Power (TPCODL). The agitators attempted to gherao the Legislative Assembly as a token of protest.

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This protest arises amid frustrations over a potential increase in electricity tariffs, which the association deems exploitative towards consumers. A spokesperson of the outfit stated, “If exploitation of electricity consumers is not stopped, we will intensify our movement.”

The State government should withdraw its plan to install pre-paid smart meters, the outfit demanded. “We strongly oppose the ongoing preparation to hike power tariff, installation of smart meters, and demand that free electricity be supplied to the agricultural sector. The Government (BJP-led) had previously given words to provide at least 300 units of free electricity to people, during the 2024 General Elections. The government should fulfill it soon,” a spokesperson of the outfit expressed to OTV.

Political parties extend support

Political parties, including Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Congress, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist), were present and shouted slogans against the power utility’s alleged monopolistic attitude. Irrational hike in the tariff is against the interests of consumers, they said.

“Electricity consumers are being exploited these days. The double-engine (BJP) government had committed in its manifesto to provide free electricity to people, and the farmers. Where did these commitments go?” BJD leader and BMC Mayor Sulochana Das questioned.

“The Government is poised to enhance the power tariff, acting on a proposal of the OERC (Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission). Odisha is a power surplus state. Despite having surplus electricity, undeclared power cuts are being done. Tata Power was brought to the State with the intention that people would get better services and uninterrupted power supply at a lower rate. But, the things are just the opposite now,” BJD’s Sulochana Das stated.

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Tata Power authorities have not yet issued a response to these accusations.