A massive electricity theft amounting to ₹1.15 crore has been uncovered at Taj Rice Mill in Deolapar, Ramtek taluka, by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL). This is the largest power theft case recorded in Vidarbha to date.
During an inspection on December 30, 2024, led by Additional Executive Engineer Vaibhav Narkhede and his team, irregularities were found in the industrial electricity meter. The team discovered an unauthorized cable connected to the incoming service line, bypassing the meter and allowing the entire mill to operate without recording actual power usage.
An investigation revealed that the mill consumed 4.9 lakh units of electricity illegally over the past 12 months, causing losses of ₹1.02 crore to MSEDCL. The proprietor, Shafique Reer Ansari, has been charged under Sections 135 and 152 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (amended 2007). Additionally, a penalty of ₹13.10 lakh has been imposed.
The investigation team’s efforts have been praised by senior MSEDCL officials, highlighting the company’s commitment to combating power theft and ensuring accountability among consumers.