Tata Power accused of coercing Odisha consumers to install smart meters

Tata Power is facing allegations of pressuring electricity consumers in Odisha to install smart meters, despite the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) stating that such installations are not mandatory for all users.

Reports indicate that the company has been using unsigned letters to coerce customers into accepting smart meters, sometimes threatening to disconnect power lines if they refuse. This practice appears to violate OERC directives, which initially suggested smart meter implementation for government offices before considering residential users.

Additionally, consumers have raised concerns regarding excessive meter rent charges. In one instance in Puri district, a consumer reported being charged approximately 3,760 rupees in rent for a smart meter.