Multiple government offices in the Pune zone have failed to clear their electricity dues on time, amounting to a staggering ₹4.36 crore.
The arrears, pending for a long period of time, have created criticism among ordinary consumers who face harsh action (power cut) for even minor delays in payment of a one-month bill.
The statistics of pending bills of government offices in the Pune zone, including Pimpri Chinchwad and seven Talukas, is till May 2025.
Consumers speak up
Shani Shetty, residing in Bibwewadi, speaking to FPJ said, "Why are there two sets of rules? If we delay payment by even a few days, we receive warning messages and a power outage. But government offices enjoy uninterrupted power while sitting on crores in dues. This is clear injustice."
Another consumer, Rohini Tiwari, highlighted, "Now the electric and advance meter have been installed, which always fluctuates the bill rather than expected. If the state governments are providing funds to pay the bill, why are these government offices delaying? There should be an inspection or the supply of electricity should be closed."
"It is infuriating. We are told to save electricity, pay on time, and follow rules. But the very offices that enforce these policies are the ones breaking them," she added.
The massive arrears have raised concerns about the financial health of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), with common citizens now demanding answers.
Consumer rights activist Kareem Shaikh said, "This blatant partiality damages public trust. MSEDCL must stop giving VIP treatment to defaulting government offices and act as strictly with them as it does with the common man."
Despite multiple reminders and notices, the outstanding dues from various departments, including administrative buildings, local bodies, and other government facilities, always remain unpaid.
Nishikant Raut, Public Relations Officer of MSEDCL, speaking to FPJ said, "These are the dues till May. However, it changes from time to time. The rules are the same for all, but there is assurance from government offices that the bill will be paid. Furthermore, over the delay, MSEDCL applies extra interest on pending amounts as a fine if the bill is not paid on time. Necessary actions have been taken whenever needed."
