Fight against power theft

Electricity theft is not merely a financial offence but has wider consequences for the power system and honest consumers. When electricity is stolen, distribution companies lose revenue, technical losses rise and the burden ultimately falls on consumers who pay their bills regularly. The Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission’s decision to empower designated officials in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to disconnect supply in cases of detected theft therefore marks an important step towards stronger enforcement. Giving Electric Distribution Sub-Division In-Charges authority to act under Section 135(1A) of the Electricity Act can make enforcement quicker. Field officials are often the first to detect irregularities, and requiring every case to move through a lengthy administrative chain can weaken the effectiveness of action. Timely disconnection, where legally warranted, can serve as a deterrent. But stronger powers must always be matched by stronger safeguards. Electricity is an essential service, and allegations of theft cannot become a licence for arbitrary action. The JERC order appropriately draws a distinction between the power to disconnect supply and the separate powers of entry, inspection, search and seizure. The latter must remain confined to officers specifically authorised under the law. The directive to publish updated lists of authorised officials, including their jurisdiction and statutory powers, is particularly significant. Consumers should know who is legally empowered to take action. Maintaining records of disconnections, complaints and restoration will further strengthen institutional accountability. The real test will be implementation. Enforcement should be consistent, evidence-based and free from discrimination, whether the alleged theft involves a household, commercial establishment or influential consumer. At the same time, consumers must have access to the safeguards and remedies provided under the Electricity Act and the JERC Supply Code. The fight against power theft needs firmness, but firmness works best when accompanied by transparency, due process and accountability.