Question : Violation of Electricity Act

(a) whether the Government can sue someone for violation of the provisions of the Electricity Act/State Acts, regulations/ terms and conditions of license with reference to Section 146 of the Electricity Act, 2003;

(b) if so, the details of the private power distribution companies which have violated the said rules during the last three years, State-wise;

(c) the number of cases filed against them and the status of the said cases as on date, company-wise;

(d) whether no cases have been filed against the private companies despite the violation of the said rules by the said companies; and

(e) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR POWER AND
NEW & RENEWABLE ENERGY

( SHRI R. K. SINGH )

(a) : As per the provision of Section 146 of Electricity Act, 2003, whoever fails to comply with any order or directions given under Electricity Act shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term as specified in this Section.

(b) to (e) : Electricity is a concurrent subject. Distribution of electricity is a licensed activity. Distribution licenses are issued by respective State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) and they have the responsibility of monitoring the implementation of the various provisions of Electricity Act, 2003. Information regarding any violation by the power distribution companies will be available with the State Government and Regulators.

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