Mumbai NCDRC investigates MSED for inflated electricity bills

The National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has intervened in a long-standing dispute involving Shrikrishna Panditrao Danve, a resident of Osmanabad, regarding inflated electricity bills from the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSED). The case dates back to 2005 when Danve received an unusually high bill, which he attributed to incorrect meter readings. The NCDRC criticized the State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (SCDRC) for failing to investigate the matter thoroughly and merely upholding a previous order from the District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (DCDRC). Danve's complaint highlighted that his meter recorded excessive consumption, including 7,383 units in a single billing cycle, despite his domestic usage. The DCDRC had dismissed his plea but calculated an average consumption of 400 units per month over several years, which Danve contested as flawed due to the inclusion of inflated readings from the disputed period. The NCDRC acknowledged the factual discrepancies in the average billing calculation and opted to send the case back to the SCDRC for a more detailed examination. This decision underscores the importance of accurate meter readings and fair billing practices in consumer rights. The NCDRC's directive aims to ensure that the allegations of incorrect billing and defective meters are properly investigated, providing a pathway for Danve to seek a fair resolution. The case reflects broader issues of consumer protection and accountability within utility services in India.