Archive · 18 Jun 2025
BESCOM Clarifies Smart Meter Policy After PIL Filed in Bengaluru
BESCOM, the electricity company in Bengaluru, is being taken to court.
Some people are unhappy because they think BESCOM is making everyone switch to new smart meters, even if their old ones work fine.
They also think the new meters cost too much.
The people who filed the lawsuit want the court to stop BESCOM from forcing the change, follow the rules, and be more open about how they buy the meters.
The court has asked BESCOM to explain their side of the story.
BESCOM clarified smart meter installations are not mandatory for existing consumers.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) alleged BESCOM pressured consumers to replace meters.
Petitioners raised concerns over compulsory smart meters and lack of transparency.
Petitioners cited higher meter prices in Bengaluru than other states.
The Karnataka High Court issued notices to the Karnataka Government, BESCOM, and KERC.
- Who
- Karnataka Vidyuth Sene and others filed the PIL against BESCOM.
- What
- A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning smart meter installations.
- When
- The court hearing has been adjourned for further proceedings.
- Where
- Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Why
- To address concerns over alleged pressure to replace electricity meters and lack of transparency in the procurement process.
Consumers/Petitioners
BESCOM
Mandatory Installation
Consumers/Petitioners
Smart meters are being forced upon consumers.
BESCOM
Smart meter installation is for new consumers, not compulsory for existing ones.
Procurement Process
Consumers/Petitioners
Meter procurement lacks transparency and is overpriced.
BESCOM
No information about the procurement process is given by the BESCOM.
- Company Involved
- BESCOM
- Legal Action
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
- Court
- Karnataka High Court
- Complaint
- Forced smart meter installations and procurement transparency
- Action
- Notices issued to relevant parties