TNR News Network
Shimla
Civil Judge Tina Malhotra has granted interim relief to shop owner Jaimal Singh in his petition against the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL), Lamblu. Singh had challenged a notice warning that his electricity supply would be disconnected if he refused to install a smart meter.
The interim order, issued on July 6 and made public on Wednesday, directed HPSEBL to restore power to Singh’s shop using the old meter within 10 days.
During the hearing, HPSEBL argued that smart meters were being installed in commercial establishments under state government policy and that the Electricity Act, 2003 requires supply through an appropriate meter. However, the court observed that while the smart meter scheme is being promoted, it cannot be considered mandatory.
“The provisions of the Electricity Act cannot be interpreted in a way that allows pressuring consumers into installing smart meters or disconnecting their electricity supply,” the court stated.
The judge clarified that the order is only interim relief and that a final decision will be taken after a regular hearing on the merits of the case.
