Agartala, 17th August 2026 : Opposition parties stepped up protests across Tripura on Monday over rising electricity bills, smart meter installation and frequent power-related grievances, with former Power Minister Manik Dey accusing the BJP-led government of mishandling the state’s power sector.
Leading a CPIM protest in Agartala, Dey said abnormal increases in electricity tariffs could be avoided if faulty meters were replaced promptly, outstanding bills recovered and meter readings conducted regularly. The CPIM Sadar Sub-Divisional Committee organised a protest march demanding withdrawal of smart meters and opposing statements made by the present Power Minister. Activists marched to the Banamalipur Electricity Corporation office and held a protest meeting.
Dey alleged that the government, which came to power 12 years ago with numerous promises, had caused serious deterioration in the power sector. Electricity, he said, is an essential service and those responsible for it must remain accountable to consumers. Criticising the tariff policy, he alleged that rates were first increased substantially and later reduced marginally. He claimed the power sector’s debt had reached around ₹1,200–₹1,300 crore and questioned the government’s attempt to distance itself from tariff decisions despite the Electricity Corporation being a government entity.
CPIM leader Amal Chakraborty alleged that Tripura’s power system had deteriorated since 2018. He claimed consumers were facing unexplained bills and additional charges following the introduction of new smart meters, which he alleged were being installed forcibly. He also alleged that the government was moving towards privatisation of the power sector.
Meanwhile, the Jubarajnagar Block Congress Committee submitted a memorandum to TSECL authorities in North Tripura, demanding withdrawal and correction of excessive bills, transparency in smart meter installation and an end to frequent load-shedding. Committee president Sachin Chowdhury warned of a larger agitation if the demands were not addressed.
Separately, consumers in Shantipur, Pecharthal, blocked the National Highway and demonstrated outside the Electricity Corporation office, demanding withdrawal of excessive charges and cancellation of smart meters.
