Commission expresses strong displeasure over Power Department’s negligence
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh–
The Haryana Right to Service Commission has directed officers of the Power Department to pay Rs. 5,000 as compensation to a consumer for not receiving electricity bills timely. The compensation has been imposed under Section 17(1)(h) of the Haryana Right to Service Act, 2014, which allows for a maximum penalty in such cases.
This case pertains to the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN), Kaithal, where a consumer did not receive electricity bills for nearly a year despite having a meter installed. The Commission found that not only was the connection wrongly cancelled at the initial stage, but repeated negligence and delay were observed throughout the appeal process as well.
Sharing more details in this regard, spokesperson of the Commission shared that previous orders had clearly established that the then SDO had misused the login ID to cancel the connection. Furthermore, despite repeated directions, the current SDO failed to provide complete information. There was also ambiguity surrounding the appointment and responsibilities of the Revenue Assistant (CA).
The spokesperson said that during the investigation, it was revealed that the Junior Engineer involved in the initial lapses had recently passed away. However, the then CA has been issued a warning by the Commission to remain vigilant in the future.
The spokesperson further informed that the Commission has directed that the consumer be allowed to pay the bill in six instalments and the compensation amount be adjusted in the consumer’s bill. The compensation is to be paid by the corporation initially and later recovered from the concerned officers as per rules.
While accepting the explanations of both SDOs involved in the matter, the Commission issued stern warnings for the future. It was clearly stated that if any further complaints are received against them, this case will be linked and disciplinary action will be recommended to the State Government.
The XEN (OP) Kaithal has been directed to submit a compliance report to the Commission by July 31, 2025.