The Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has dramatically stepped up its fight against electricity theft in the Nagpur division. This division covers all eleven districts of the Vidarbha region. In a major nine-month drive, the utility's special flying squads have uncovered power theft and other serious irregularities valued at almost thirty-six crore rupees.
Massive Inspections Across Vidarbha
From April to December 2025, the security and enforcement department of MSEDCL conducted a widespread anti-theft operation. Teams inspected a total of 7,771 electricity connections. These connections served domestic households, commercial establishments, and industrial units across the region.
Direct Theft and Unauthorized Use
The drive revealed shocking levels of direct power theft. Officials found evidence at 2,214 separate locations. MSEDCL has initiated action under the amended Section 135 of the Electricity Act, 2003, for these cases. The financial impact of this direct theft alone amounts to a staggering Rs 25.43 crore.
Beyond direct theft, the squads detected widespread unauthorized electricity use. They also found many consumers using power beyond their sanctioned load limits. Under Section 126 of the Electricity Act, irregularities were identified in 890 cases. These cases involve an additional Rs 10.52 crore.
Recovery and Criminal Action
The combined assessment for power theft and related irregularities over the nine months reached Rs 35.95 crore. MSEDCL has already recovered a significant portion of this amount. The utility has successfully collected Rs 31.03 crore from the defaulting consumers so far.
For consumers who failed to clear their assessed dues, MSEDCL did not stop at financial penalties. The company initiated criminal proceedings against them. A total of 308 power theft cases have been officially registered at various police stations across the Nagpur region. Officials emphasize that power theft is not just a financial violation. It is a serious criminal offence that can lead to imprisonment.
How the Squads Operate
The Nagpur regional division's operations are backed by a robust network. There are twelve special flying squads working at the circle level. Three main flying squads operate at the divisional level. Dedicated security and enforcement offices function in both Nagpur and Akola circles.
These teams use modern detection tools to identify suspicious patterns in electricity consumption. Upon spotting irregularities, they conduct swift raids to gather evidence and take action.
A Social Offence and a Public Appeal
MSEDCL describes power theft as a social offence. It increases distribution losses for the company. Ultimately, this financial burden falls on honest consumers who pay their bills regularly. The utility has made a fresh appeal to citizens for assistance in curbing this menace.
MSEDCL urges the public to report any instances of suspected power theft. People can contact their local flying squads or the nearest MSEDCL office. The company assures that the identity of informers will be kept completely confidential. Suitable rewards will also be given for credible information that leads to action.
Leadership and Future Plans
This special anti-power theft drive is being carried out under the guidance of top MSEDCL officials. They include CMD Lokesh Chandra, Executive Director (Security and Enforcement) Aparna Gite, and Nagpur Regional Deputy Director Sunil Thapekar.
MSEDCL has reiterated its appeal for all consumers to use electricity only through authorized connections. The company has also sent a clear warning. The crackdown on power theft across Vidarbha will be intensified even further in the coming months.
