The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has directed the central and state governments to submit their responses on the installation of electric smart meters across Maharashtra. The court granted an extension until August 14 to present their replies, marking it as the final opportunity for both parties to clarify their stand.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed by the Vidarbha Veej Grahak Sanghatana challenging the installation of these modern smart meters in households. The petition claims that the decision was implemented without conducting necessary technical and financial studies, and without consulting or informing consumers.
The petitioners argued that the smart meters automatically disconnect electricity once the recharge is exhausted, causing disruption in power supply. This, they say, forces constant mental stress on consumers to monitor meter balance. It was also alleged that the system is akin to a prepaid meter setup, raising transparency concerns in billing and power cut procedures.
In response, Mahavitaran (MSEDCL) dismissed the allegations in its affidavit to the court, stating that the smart meters in question are not prepaid meters. The company clarified that electricity will not be automatically disconnected after recharge is over, and consumers will continue to receive bills as per the existing postpaid system.
The case is being closely monitored as it could impact millions of electricity users across the state. Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Vrushali Joshi are presiding over the matter, with further hearings expected post the government’s detailed reply.
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