The CPIM on Tuesday criticized Tripura’s Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath, accusing him of sidestepping critical questions regarding the government’s push for smart meter installation. The party alleged that the move signals the beginning of privatization in the power distribution sector.
Addressing the media at the CPIM state headquarters, party state secretary and Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury questioned the government’s motives, calling the initiative a “stepping stone” for private players to enter the power sector.
Former Power Minister Manik Dey elaborated on the party’s concerns, stating, “We oppose the smart meter drive because it is being done without transparency. The smart meters are reportedly developed by two leading private firms, which could gain full access to consumer data and power usage patterns.”
Dey warned that private companies, driven by profit, would likely take over lucrative urban areas while leaving rural regions underserved. “If this model continues, state-run TSECL will become financially unsustainable as profitable zones are taken over by private entities. Eventually, rural consumers will be left behind,” he said.
Addressing rising electricity bills, Dey urged the government to focus on improving bill collection. He cited a TSECL report that shows only 60% billing efficiency in urban areas and 50% in rural areas. “If we reach even 80% collection, TSECL’s financial condition would improve significantly, reducing the burden on regular consumers,” he asserted.
Dey claimed that TSECL was once a profitable entity with Rs 300 crore in reserves. “We are not against technological progress, but any move that compromises public interest or prioritizes commercialization over service delivery must be opposed,” he concluded.
