In a decisive move to tackle the rampant issue of electricity theft and recover mounting financial losses, the Madhya Pradesh government is establishing specialized energy police stations across the state. Energy Minister Pradyumn Singh Tomar announced this significant policy shift during a media interaction in Bhopal on Sunday, marking two years of the Mohan Yadav-led government.
A Crackdown on Power Theft and Dues
Minister Tomar highlighted that power theft has become a pressing concern, officially classified as a cognisable offence punishable by up to three years' imprisonment. The primary objective of these dedicated police stations is to act as a strong deterrent and ensure swift legal action against offenders. The state is grappling with outstanding electricity dues from consumers that have crossed a staggering Rs 11,000 crore, even as it continues to provide heavy subsidies to various consumer segments.
"Despite massive subsidies and reforms, unpaid electricity bills and theft are hurting the system. Strict steps are unavoidable," Tomar stated emphatically. He detailed the substantial subsidy burden, noting that around Rs 26,000 crore is provided annually to domestic and agricultural consumers. Industries receive tariff concessions worth nearly Rs 2,000 crore every year. Nearly one crore domestic consumers pay just Rs 100 for the first 100 units of monthly consumption, while farmers pay only about 7% of their total billed amount, with certain SC/ST farmers receiving free power.
Structure and Implementation of the New Force
Energy Secretary Vishesh Gadhpale provided operational details, confirming that the groundwork for these specialized units is already in progress. The structure will involve SP-level officers at the divisional commissionerate level and additional SP-level officers at district levels. These police officials will be brought on deputation from the home department and will be assisted by technical staff from the energy department.
"The process is underway; however, exactly when it will come into force is not clear till now," Gadhpale told TOI. This new framework is designed to combine policing authority with technical expertise for effective enforcement.
Roadmap for a Sustainable Power Future
While addressing challenges, Minister Tomar also highlighted the state's achievements on the supply side. He pointed out that Madhya Pradesh successfully met a record peak demand of 19,113 MW on December 12 without any power cuts. This feat is supported by a contracted capacity of over 25,000 MW, officially making it a power-surplus state.
Further strengthening the financial health of distribution companies (discoms), the state converted discom debt of Rs 13,365 crore into equity, saving Rs 902 crore annually in interest payments. Looking ahead, the minister outlined a comprehensive roadmap including new thermal plants, a Rs 5,000-crore transmission expansion plan, renewable energy tie-ups, and rationalisation of subsidies to keep tariffs in check while ensuring reliable supply.
A key component of this future strategy is the push for smart meters. Tomar informed that consumers using electricity between 9 am and 5 pm are getting a 20% tariff rebate, while prepaid meter users get an additional per-unit discount. "For honest consumers, smart meters are a win-win," he affirmed. The establishment of energy police stations, coupled with these technological and infrastructural reforms, signifies a multi-pronged attack by the MP government to secure its power sector's financial and operational stability.
