Consumers' Body Demands Withdrawal of Hiked Power Tariff, End to Forced Smart Meters
Sep 08, 2026
The Tripura Electricity Consumers' Association on Tuesday submitted a memorandum to the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission, demanding withdrawal of the hiked power tariff and an end to the forced installation of smart meters.
A delegation from the organization visited the Commission's office and handed over the deputation to a member of the Commission, in the absence of the chairman. According to the association's representatives, their demands were placed before the member in charge of the Commission.
The association stated that since the state government has already decided to bear a 100 percent subsidy on the increased electricity tariff, there is no reason for the hiked charge to continue appearing on consumers' bills. They demanded that the government instead settle the amount directly through the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), so that ordinary consumers are spared the burden shown on their bills.
Meanwhile, the organization also opposed the forced installation of smart meters, saying consumers should be allowed to choose between prepaid and postpaid meters according to their own preference. It further objected to a notification issued by TSECL making prepaid meters mandatory for new electricity connections.
The representatives said the Electricity Regulatory Commission is the principal authority for deciding power-related policy, and it was on this basis that a total of seven demands were submitted through the memorandum.
The association urged the Commission to intervene and ensure quick implementation of its demands, including withdrawal of the hiked tariff, freedom of choice in metering, and a stop to forced smart meter installation, in the interest of the general public.
