Massive Power Theft Worth Rs 14.5 Crore Uncovered in Marathwada Region
The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has exposed a significant electricity theft operation in the Marathwada region, with losses estimated at nearly Rs 14.5 crore. This discovery was made during an intensive nine-month campaign conducted from April to December 2025, targeting unauthorized power consumption across the area.
Widespread Illegal Practices and Rigorous Inspections
Officials identified rampant practices among errant consumers, including tampering with electricity meters and using metal hooks to illegally draw power from distribution lines. These methods not only cause substantial financial losses but also pose severe safety risks to the electrical infrastructure and public safety.
Aditya Jivane, the joint managing director of MSEDCL for Marathwada, emphasized the scale of the anti-theft drive. "A massive campaign against electricity theft was conducted over nine months, sending a strong message to consumers about the consequences of such illegal activities," he stated. Jivane further appealed to all consumers to utilize electricity only through authorized and legal channels to ensure safety and compliance.
Detailed Findings and Penalties Imposed
During the campaign, MSEDCL inspectors examined 3,799 electricity meters suspected of theft or irregularities. Out of these, 1,727 meters were confirmed to have been involved in electricity theft or other violations. The total unauthorized power consumption amounted to 16,091,223 units, leading to estimated penalty bills of nearly Rs 14.5 crore.
Sunil Jadhav, the deputy chief public relations officer of MSEDCL for Marathwada, provided specific recovery details. "Of the Rs 14.5 crore in penalties, Rs 8.8 crore has already been recovered from the offenders," he reported. Additionally, legal cases have been filed against 55 individuals identified as electricity thieves, underscoring the serious legal repercussions of such actions.
Legal Framework and Ongoing Vigilance
The crackdown is grounded in the Electricity Act, 2003, which strictly prohibits various forms of unauthorized electricity use. Key provisions include:
- Section 126: Bans unauthorized use of electricity from neighbors, exceeding sanctioned load capacity, and using electricity for categories other than those sanctioned.
- Section 135: Addresses more severe offenses like meter tampering, hooking up to power lines, and tapping service wires, all of which invite stringent legal action.
MSEDCL officials have affirmed that the campaign against power theft will continue in the future. They warned consumers that unauthorized electricity use is not only illegal but also highly unsafe, potentially leading to accidents, fires, and damage to the power grid. The utility remains committed to safeguarding its resources and ensuring a fair distribution system for all legitimate consumers.
