Addressing the issue, Singh claimed that smart meters would allow the government to charge consumers based on fluctuating demand rather than stable rates, leading to what he described as unjustified and excessive recovery from the public. He argued that when demand rises in extreme heat, households would be forced to pay significantly more for electricity, placing an added financial burden on ordinary citizens.
The Rajya Sabha MP further stated that such a mechanism violates the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003, which governs power distribution and consumer protection in India. According to Singh, the alleged approach undermines the legal framework meant to ensure fairness and transparency in electricity pricing.
Singh announced that the Aam Aadmi Party would strongly oppose the move, both on the streets and inside Parliament. He said the party is prepared to launch a sustained campaign against what he termed “authoritarian decision-making” by the state government, asserting that electricity is a basic public necessity and not a commodity to be exploited for revenue gains.
Issuing a warning to the authorities, Singh emphasized that any attempt to impose arbitrary policies in essential services like electricity would be met with resistance. He reiterated that public welfare must remain central to governance, especially in matters that directly affect daily life and household expenses.
The controversy adds to the growing political debate around smart meter implementation in several states, with opposition parties questioning both its legality and its impact on consumers. As the issue gains momentum, it is likely to intensify scrutiny of power sector reforms and their implications for millions of electricity users in Uttar Pradesh.
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