Mahavitaran (MSEDCL) has issued fresh warning letters to consumers across Nagpur who continue to refuse smart electricity meter installation, reigniting tensions between the utility and residents opposed to the rollout. The letters state that consumers who do not cooperate could face government obstruction charges, while officials failing to complete installations within 48 hours risk disciplinary action.
Chief Engineer Rajesh Naik said the letters were issued as required under the Electricity Act, 2003, and 2026 rules making smart meters mandatory, and that action can be taken against consumers who obstruct the process. He ruled out any cash-based alternative payment system, and specifically flagged an additional executive engineer in the Congress Nagar division for sending similar letters.
Mohan Sharma, convener of a citizens’ group opposing smart meters, hit back, accusing Mahavitaran of using threatening language against consumers without valid grounds. He said the objection is not to smart meters themselves but to the electricity theft cases being filed alongside installation, and warned that political parties and social organisations would meet soon to chart the next phase of protest.
Normally, connections are cut only over pending bill dues — a lapsed connection can be restored once dues are cleared — whereas power theft cases involve unauthorised use or meter tampering and can lead to permanent disconnection. Consumer groups say conflating the two has deepened distrust as Mahavitaran presses ahead with the installation drive despite continued local resistance.
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