The Vidarbha Rajya Aandolan Samiti (VIRAAS) has intensified its agitation against the recent electricity rate hike and the installation of smart prepaid meters by MSEDCL. Despite continuous opposition from the organization, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) implemented a tariff increase of 35 to 95 paise per unit effective from October 1, 2025.
VIRAAS leaders condemned the move, stating that during the festive period of Diwali, MSEDCL has “shocked” citizens with this anti-people decision. They further alleged that under the guise of introducing “TOD Smart Prepaid Meters,” the company is executing a large-scale plan to exploit the public financially.
To protest this, a “Vij March” (Electricity March) was organized today under the leadership of the VIRAAS Nagpur City President. The rally began from Shivaji Nagar Gate and proceeded to the MSEDCL office at Tulshibag, raising slogans demanding the withdrawal of the electricity rate hike and cancellation of the smart prepaid meters. On seeing the rally approaching, the MSEDCL officials locked the main gate of the office. Protesters pushed forward to meet the officials; however, finding none present, they grew agitated and symbolically burned electricity bills within the office premises.
Following this act, police detained key protestors and took them to the Kotwali Police Station under Section 135. The remaining protestors, led by senior VIRAAS members, surrounded the MSEDCL office and refused to disperse until the detained individuals were released. After nearly half an hour, the detainees were freed, leading to the peaceful conclusion of the protest.
VIRAAS leaders stated that Vidarbha produces electricity, but the benefits are being diverted to other states like Goa while Vidarbha citizens bear the brunt of expensive power. They criticized the government for exploiting the region’s land, water, and coal resources and still imposing high tariffs on locals.
They also recalled that before the Assembly elections, following public outrage, then Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule had personally assured activists that prepaid meters would be withdrawn. However, after returning to power, the government has resumed installing “smart meters” at the behest
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