Editorial | Electricity Theft

The theft of electricity is a serious crime which has unfortunately been quite rampant in this part of the world. A majority of households in a complete disdain to the laws, morals and ethics are involved in this unscrupulous practice and on the top of it despite time to time appeals from different quarters the practice has been going on unabatedly. Under clause 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the theft of electricity means whoever dishonestly indulges in taking direct supply without an electric meter and this clause says the offence is punishable with imprisonment for a term, which may extend to three years or fine or both. But seldom do we see such people taking heed which in turn has been causing losses worth crores to the state exchequer. Nonetheless sensing the gravity of the issue the Lieutenant Governor administration has taken out of the box measure to install ‘Smart-meters’ in its effort to stop the stealing of electricity. Over the period of time, the authorities starting from Summer-capital Srinagar itself braving stiff resistance from inhabitants have already covered a large chunk under the scheme and are advancing these smart gadgets in other districts as well. Albeit of these innovative measures’, there still are many areas in Kashmir which yearn for a better power supply even after time to time assurances from the people at the helm of the affairs. Hope the authorities take measures to ensure that a fair power supply is made possible to every nook and cranny of the Valley so that the people can reap benefits of the welfare policies of the government.