Anger grows over TPCODL’s security deposit notices, state-wide protest threatened

Discontent among electricity consumers in Odisha has intensified following the issuance of demand notices by TPCODL seeking payment of additional security deposits. The move has sparked widespread anger, prompting the Electricity Consumers’ Federation to approach the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC), demanding immediate withdrawal of the decision.

On Tuesday, representatives of the federation submitted a memorandum to the OERC, urging the regulator to intervene and roll back the demand. The federation warned that if the decision is not withdrawn, consumers would launch a state-wide agitation in the coming days. 

The consumers’ body has also raised serious questions about whether Tata Power, while issuing notices for additional security deposits, is refunding or adjusting excess security amounts already deposited by consumers. This lack of clarity has further fuelled public dissatisfaction.

“The notice says if a consumer cannot deposit the security amount, then they will be jailed for three years or imposed a Rs 10K fine. This is how they are creating terror to extort money from the consumers. The OERC should immediately order the withdrawal of the notice,” slammed  Panchanan Kanungo, OCF President. 

Also Read: Terminated TPCODL workers stage protest at Puri Bada Danda, seek justice

The federation has squarely blamed the Energy Department and the state government, alleging that Tata Power’s decision was taken with their tacit approval. Echoing similar sentiments, the Salepur Consumers’ Association has warned that it will soon hit the streets and intensify protests across the state if the demands are ignored.

Speaking to OTV, a Salepur consumer, Rabindra Parija said, “I have two connections. For one, I have got Rs 1556 bill, while for another I have got an additional Rs 2056 bill. We will protest it vehemently. They are starting it now in Salepur and will soon spread it across Odisha.”

In a statement, Tata Power clarified that consumers receive 6.5 per cent annual interest on security deposits held with TPCODL, which is credited to their accounts annually.

Despite mounting opposition, neither the state government nor the Energy Department has issued an official response so far.