Manik Sarkar Slams BJP over Smart Meters, Calls It a Tool of ‘Widespread Corruption’

By TC News Desk

Agartala, 24^th July 2025:   Former Tripura Chief Minister and CPI(M) Politburo member Manik Sarkar today launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government over the ongoing installation of smart electricity meters in the state, terming the move as “unacceptable” and “a new method to loot the people.”

Addressing reporters, Sarkar accused the RSS-backed BJP government of forcing people to accept smart meters without public consultation or consent. He said that the people of Tripura, who were already receiving proper meter readings with the older system, are now being subjected to exorbitant electricity bills due to the new digital meters.

“There was no issue with the old electricity meters. Then why this sudden imposition of smart meters?” he questioned, alleging that the decision was being taken not for the benefit of consumers but to serve the interests of big corporate players. “Smart meters mean widespread corruption. The Centre has found a new way to loot people in the name of technological advancement,” Sarkar claimed.

Referring to protests that have erupted across the state, the veteran Left leader said the BJP must understand that scientific progress cannot be thrust upon people without awareness or consensus. “If the goal was to ease people’s lives using advanced equipment, the government should have first educated and involved the public in the decision. But instead, people are being compelled to install these meters. This is simply unacceptable,” he asserted.

He also pointed out the BJP’s contradictory stance on the issue, recalling how the saffron party had opposed the installation of smart meters when the Trinamool Congress government tried a similar move in West Bengal. “Why this double standard? Why are people being forced to accept smart meters in Tripura now?” he asked.

As dissatisfaction grows over inflated bills and lack of transparency, protests against the installation of smart meters have gained momentum in several parts of the state, turning the issue into a major political flashpoint.