Members and supporters of the Congress party staged a strong demonstration in front of the Tata Power-controlled TPCODL office in Bhubaneswar on Monday. The protest was directed against the demand notes issued by power distribution companies to consumers for Additional Security Deposits (ASDs).
Congress Leaders Decry Exploitation, Demand Free Power
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Das actively participated in the agitation. He emphasized that electricity has become a basic necessity, akin to food, clothing, and shelter. “If its supply is stopped, life will come to a standstill,” Das stated. He accused the power companies of threatening consumers with disconnection if they fail to pay the ASD on time.
Das highlighted the disparity in power policies, noting that farmers in other states receive concessions, which are absent in Odisha. He announced the launch of an electricity office lock-up campaign across all district headquarters in the state. “We will conduct agitation everywhere in urban and rural areas until the withdrawal of the collection of ASD,” he asserted.
The Congress leader also appealed to the public to raise their voices against what he termed Tata Power’s exploitation. He took a political jab, recalling that the BJP, in its election manifesto, had promised 300 units of free electricity but failed to deliver after coming to power in the state.
Widespread Support and Political Reactions
The protest saw support from other senior Congress figures. Former Union minister Srikant Jena demanded free electricity supply for domestic consumers and farmers. Minakshi Bahinipati, the state president of the Congress’s women wing, issued a stern warning, saying if the government does not provide free electricity, they will not let it remain in peace. She confirmed that the agitation would spread from Bhubaneswar to villages across Odisha.
In response, BJP state president Manmohan Samal offered a measured comment, stating they did not wish to give an opinion on the Congress party's agitation. “They are in the opposition, and they have the right to protest on different issues. Govt will look into that matter,” Samal added.
Tata Power's Defense of the Security Deposit
Recently, Gajanan Kale, chief of Odisha distribution business at Tata Power, explained the company's position. He clarified that the annual security deposit review is a statutory exercise mandated by the regulator. It is designed to protect consumer interests while ensuring business continuity.
Kale detailed that the security deposit earns 6.5 per cent annual interest, which is adjusted in electricity bills during the first quarter. Any excess amount arising from lower consumption is also adjusted. He assured that these deposits are maintained as fixed deposits and are not utilized for operational purposes.
The protest underscores the growing public discontent over rising electricity costs and charges in Odisha, setting the stage for more confrontations if the demands are not addressed.
