Silchar: The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) has strongly opposed the ongoing drive of prepaid smart meter installation being carried out by the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) in Cachar district and other parts of Barak Valley.

According to reports, APDCL authorities, accompanied by police personnel, have been approaching households in several areas, particularly in Dholai constituency, and forcing consumers to install smart meters. The Congress alleged that in cases where residents refused to comply, electricity connections were disconnected on the spot.

Instances have also surfaced where smart meters were installed in the absence of family members, without prior consent, sparking widespread resentment. Consumers who attempted to lodge complaints with higher APDCL authorities in Barak Valley were allegedly denied a hearing, the party claimed.

“The way the APDCL authorities are indulged in forceful installation, it may ruin the peace and tranquility at any time and untoward incidents may take place,” said Sanjeev Roy, Spokesperson of APCC, in a statement issued on Friday.

The Congress further stated that its party workers are extending support to consumers facing harassment in different areas and warned that if the forceful installation is not stopped immediately, the party will intensify its opposition.

“We demand that the concerned enforcing agency and APDCL stop such acts immediately and end the harassment of helpless people. Else, Congress party will stand firmly with the common people and resist this injustice,” Roy added.

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