KVPS demands action on electricity meter removals, harsh billing practices

Eluru – Andhra Pradesh: In a protest on Friday, in Buttaigudem and Reddy Ganapavaram villages, Andhra Pradesh KVPS State General Secretary Andra Malyadri and Eluru District Secretary A Francis demanded that the state government take immediate action against electricity officials who allegedly harassed Dalit and tribal residents by removing meters without prior notice and charging exorbitant bills. The protest aimed to highlight issues surrounding the free electricity scheme for marginalized communities, which leaders claim is being mismanaged and unfairly enforced.

Demands for accountability and proper implementation of free electricity scheme

KVPS leaders are urging the state government to ensure fair treatment and adherence to the free electricity subsidy promised to SC/ST communities. They claim that the government’s free electricity initiative has been poorly managed, with electricity officials removing meters and penalizing households that cannot afford the increased bills.

Allegations of excessive billing and threatening tactics

KVPS leaders allege that officials are charging excessive fees to Dalit and tribal residents by deliberately inflating bills for low-consumption households, using the threat of meter removal as a means of intimidation. In many cases, meters were taken away without any warning, leaving communities without power and prompting calls for immediate rectification.

Calls for government intervention and vigilance monitoring committees

The leaders argue that regular Vigilance Monitoring Committee meetings are essential to address issues under the SC/ST Atrocities Act and to hold officials accountable. They urge the state government to take up this matter in district-level meetings to prevent further abuse and ensure proper oversight.

Warning of legal action if demands are ignored

KVPS has warned of potential public unrest if officials fail to restore meters in Dalit and tribal households and continue alleged discriminatory practices. They are prepared to initiate legal action against electricity authorities should these issues persist. KVPS has also demanded that the ruling Telugu Desam Party make a public announcement on ensuring fair implementation of the free electricity scheme, with further agitation planned if no response is received.

Local leaders and activists, including Mogali Gangaraju, K Kondaiah, Maraiah, Baburao, G Durgamma, Rama Devi, Amirla Durgamma, Chandra Rao, and Subbar Rao, participated in the protest, emphasizing the urgent need for state intervention to protect SC/ST rights and livelihoods.