The Orissa High Court has issued a notice to the state government in connection with the Tata Power Additional Security Deposit (ASD) case.
The court directed the government to file its response within two weeks.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice Murahari Sri Raman heard the public interest litigation (PIL) and ordered notices to the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) and the state Energy Department Secretary, seeking their replies. The next hearing has been scheduled for three weeks.
The PIL challenges Tata Power’s decision to impose an additional security deposit on electricity consumers. The move triggered widespread public resentment across Odisha, with consumer associations staging protests and demanding the withdrawal of the deposit.
Earlier, several consumer groups alleged that Tata Power introduced smart meters and additional deposits without proper authorisation. Petitioners argued that the charges violate OERC regulations and electricity supply laws. They demanded the immediate withdrawal of the company’s notification imposing the ASD.
The complaint further alleged that Tata Power failed to comply with statutory provisions and burdened consumers with illegal fees. The PIL named the Energy Secretary, OERC, and TPCODL (Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Limited) as respondents.
