More teeth for state power regulators

The Lok Sabha passed amendments to the Electricity Act, 2003, incorporating a specified time-frame for the phased introduction of open access in distribution of power.

Replying to a debate on the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2003, Power Minister Anant Geete said the law was being amended to give more teeth to state electricity regulatory commissions (SERCs) to prevent power theft and give powers to appellate tribunals for superintendence and control.

"With these amendments, this comprehensive legislation will bring in revolutionary change in power distribution in the country," he said, adding the amendments were brought in accordance with the government's assurance to the Rajya Sabha.

The amendment provides state government officials search and seizure powers to check theft of electricity and impose penalties up to Rs 10,000 for negligent wastage of electricity.

Any officer authorised by the state government may "enter, inspect, break open and search any place or premises in which he has reason to believe that electricity has been, is being, or is likely to be used unauthorisedly," it said.