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

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed on Tuesday against Tata Power (TPCODL) 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.

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The complaint demands the 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.

The case highlights growing concerns among residents about compliance, transparency, and accountability in electricity billing practices. Authorities are expected to examine the matter closely to ensure consumer rights are protected.

Energy Secretary, OERC, and TPCODL have been made parties to the litigation.

However, no comments were received from the Tata Power authorities in this regard.

Earlier today, the Khordha district unit of Congress staged a protest, accusing Tata Power of exploiting electricity consumers. Raising slogans against the power utility, Congress workers alleged that consumers are being harassed through unfair trade practices.

Under the banner of District Youth Congress, a massive rally was taken out from Khordha’s New Bus Stand. The procession marched through key areas of the town before reaching the TPCODL office. Party members gathered outside the office and held a demonstration highlighting their grievances.

“They are forcing poor consumers to pay advance security deposits, in the name of Smart meter, they are committing corruption. When a consumer’s electric wire is damaged or burnt, and the repair costs Rs 2,000, will Tata Power staff replace the wire if Rs 1,150 is deposited with the company?” said Rajib Pattnaik, Youth Congress President, Khordha.

Worth mentioning, in another incident on December 18, the youth and student wings of Biju Janata Dal had protested outside the TPCODL office in Bhubaneswar, demanding immediate withdrawal of the company’s previous notice on additional security deposit and smart meter installation.