Orissa High Court issues notice to Tata Power, OERC on additional security deposit issue

Orissa High Court has issued a notice to Tata Power in connection with the matter of additional security deposit. The court has granted the company two weeks’ time to file its reply to the notice.

Apart from Tata Power, the High Court has also issued notices to the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) and the State Energy Department Secretary, seeking their responses in the same matter. The Court has fixed the next hearing after three weeks.

It may be noted that widespread public dissatisfaction had erupted across various parts of the State over Tata Power’s decision to impose an additional security deposit on electricity consumers. In protest against this move, consumer associations had taken to the streets and launched agitations, demanding withdrawal of the additional deposit and relief for consumers.

Also Read: PIL filed against Tata Power over smart meter and additional security deposit

Earlier last month, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed against Tata Power over alleged unauthorised imposition of Smart Meters and Additional Security Deposits. The petitioners claimed that these charges violate the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) Act and power supply norms.

The complaint demanded immediate withdrawal of the earlier notification issued by the company demanding an additional security deposit. It alleges that Tata Power has not complied with statutory provisions and has burdened the consumers with unlawful fees. Energy Secretary, OERC, and TPCODL were made parties to the litigation.