How do I challenge my Kollam electricity disconnection before the state electricity regulatory commission?
GA Asked by Gayatri Rao from India
Quick Answer
You can challenge a disconnection of your Kollam electricity supply by filing a complaint before the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum and thereafter the Ombudsman under Kerala Rent Control Act 1963, before approaching the Kerala High Court.
Detailed Legal Analysis
You can challenge a disconnection of your Kollam electricity supply by filing a complaint before the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum and thereafter the Ombudsman under Kerala Rent Control Act 1963, before approaching the Kerala High Court. The licensee must give a notice of disconnection for non-payment and a reasonable opportunity to pay, and disconnection without notice or on a disputed bill is unlawful under the state electricity code.
The Kerala High Court has held that the licensee cannot disconnect supply for the disputed portion of the bill and that the Consumer Forum must decide the complaint within the timeline prescribed by Kerala Rent Control Act 1963. If the Forum and the Ombudsman do not give relief, a writ in the Kerala High Court is maintainable on grounds of violation of natural justice and the state code.
Keep the bills, the payment receipts, and the complaint correspondence, as the Forum requires proof of dispute and of non-receipt of notice to order reconnection and compensation.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.