JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Engineering Graduates Association (JKEEGA) has urged the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) to approve the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited’s (JPDCL) proposal authorising designated officers to disconnect illegal electricity users and initiate action against power theft.
At an executive body meeting chaired by president Sachin Tickoo, JKEEGA reviewed the commitments made by JPDCL management under the Memorandum of Agreement issued on August 14, 2026. The association said the management had agreed to authorise officers to file complaints and initiate action under Sections 135(1A) and 151 of the Electricity Act, 2003, within four weeks. However, JKEEGA said the required authorisation was still awaited.
According to the association, JPDCL Managing Director subsequently approached the JERC through letter No. MD/JPDCL/TS/2304-06 dated September 11 seeking approval for authorising officers to disconnect illegal users. JKEEGA expressed concern over the alleged lack of response, saying the delay was affecting enforcement against electricity theft while employees continued to face criticism over revenue realisation and AT&C losses.
The association also flagged delays in replacing more than 25,000 damaged or non-communicating smart meters. Though a committee was constituted on September 12, it said the promised SOP had not yet been issued. Similarly, JKEEGA said JPDCL’s August 24 request to JERC regarding billing of damaged/non-communicating meters under JERC regulations was still awaiting a response.
JKEEGA further sought action against agencies allegedly responsible for poor workmanship and delayed meter replacement, besides a comprehensive enforcement mechanism. It appealed to JERC to expedite the pending approvals to enable lawful action against power theft and safeguard the interests of consumers who pay their electricity bills regularly.