Bengaluru | June 19:
A recent directive issued by the BESCOM central office, citing a Supreme Court guideline, has ignited widespread anger among consumers. The circular mandates that permanent electricity connections be granted only to buildings that possess a valid Occupancy Certificate (OC).
This move has come as a shock to numerous consumers, especially those who have been living with temporary connections for the past two years. Many have already paid all required charges for permanent connections but are now being denied service due to the absence of an OC — a document that certifies a building is fit for occupation.
Frustrated consumers argue that the Supreme Court has not explicitly barred power connections to completed residential structures without an OC, and they claim BESCOM is misusing the court’s observation to withhold service. Adding to their ire, they say no such rule is being enforced in other Indian states, where authorities are offering more practical solutions for ongoing constructions or OC delays.
“Our homes are nearly complete, and we’ve complied with BESCOM’s payment norms. Still, permanent power is being withheld unjustly,” said a consumer from Subdivision S7.
To make matters worse, temporary connections are billed at a significantly higher rate. Many residents — already burdened with home loans and rent while living in alternate accommodations — now face a financial crunch.
“It’s becoming unaffordable. We’re paying EMIs, rent, and inflated electricity bills — all because of an arbitrary policy,” complained another resident.
In response, affected residents have rallied under the Karnataka Electricity Consumers’ Forum, launching a signature campaign demanding an immediate resolution. They are urging BESCOM and government authorities to review the policy and offer interim or alternative solutions for genuine consumers facing bureaucratic delays in acquiring OCs.
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