Dwarbond basti electricity consumers demonstrate protest against installation of prepaid smart meters

In a recent gathering at the Big Market of Dwarbond Basti area, chaired by Asim Das, President of the All Assam Electricity Consumers Association, Cachar District Coordination Committee, residents voiced theierstrong opposition against the installation of prepaid smart meters.

The meeting, attended by concerned citizens, highlighted the financial burden and legality concerns associated with the installation of these meters.

During the meeting, attendees unanimously decided to escalate their protest against the installation of prepaid smart meters in the region.

The committee emphasized that demanding advance payments for electricity services raises legal issues, considering electricity as an essential service. Residents, primarily engaged in labor and agriculture, find it financially challenging to recharge their meters in advance, making the prepaid system impractical for them.

The committee members strictly opposed the installation of prepaid smart meters and urged the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APCO) authorities to halt the installation process.

They pointed out that the rural population, mainly consisting of laborers and farmers, cannot afford the upfront costs, making regular meter recharges unfeasible for them.

In response to this issue, Asim Das was appointed President, with Deboraj Rabidas and Suma De as Vice Presidents, Rama Ranjan De as Editor, and Mithun Bhattacharya as Co-Editor.

Additionally, a committee comprising 26 members was formed to lead the protest, representing the collective voice of the local residents. The community remains united in their stance, advocating for fair and accessible electricity services for all.