The Chamber of Associations of Maharashtra Industry & Trade (CAMIT), which represents a wide spectrum of trade and industry bodies across Maharashtra, has submitted a formal representation to the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), demanding immediate vacation of the ex-parte stay granted on the Multi-Year Tariff (MYT) Order dated March 28, 2025.
The MYT Order, which came into effect on April 1, 2025, followed an extensive public hearing process, including over 4,485 objections and suggestions from consumers and associations. The order had notably reduced cross-subsidies and provided lower electricity tariffs across consumer categories, aligning with the Electricity Act, 2003 and the National Electricity Policy.
However, on April 2, 2025, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) moved an Interlocutory Application (IA No. 42 of 2025) invoking the Commission’s suo-motu powers — without filing a formal review petition. MERC subsequently granted an ex-parte stay on the order.
CAMIT President Dr. Dipen Agrawal has strongly opposed the stay, pointing to procedural flaws and the detrimental impact on consumers. He raised the following key concerns:
- Violation of Natural Justice: “The ex-parte stay was granted without notifying or hearing any of the consumer objectors or associations who had actively participated in the MYT proceedings.”
- No Error on Record: MSEDCL failed to demonstrate any “error apparent on the face of the record”—a legal prerequisite for review under Order 47 Rule 1 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
- Tariff Orders Cannot Be Stayed Once Enforced: As per Section 64(6) of the Electricity Act, 2003, tariff orders, once in force, remain applicable until amended or revoked through due process.
- No Prejudice to Consumers: Contrary to MSEDCL’s claim, the MYT Order reduced tariffs for all categories and its implementation is in the best interest of the state’s consumers. Comparisons with other distribution licensees show MSEDCL’s tariffs remain the highest in the state.
CAMIT stated that MSEDCL’s action appears to be an attempt at a backdoor rehearing, circumventing the formal review process. The organization has urged MERC to:
- Vacate the ex-parte stay granted on April 2, 2025.
- Direct MSEDCL to submit a formal review petition and publish it on its website.
- Hold a public hearing to allow all affected stakeholders to voice their opinions.
CAMIT reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of traders, industries, and consumers across Maharashtra. The organization has called for complete transparency and strict adherence to due process in regulatory matters impacting public tariffs and utilities.
Issued by:
Chamber of Associations of Maharashtra Industry & Trade (CAMIT)
Dr. Dipen Agrawal, President
+91 98222 21621
camit.president@gmail.com