Disconnection of electricity is one of the most drastic steps a distribution company can take against a consumer — and the law surrounds it with safeguards. If your supply has been cut, or you have been threatened with disconnection, these are the basics.
Notice is compulsory
Under Section 56(1) of the Electricity Act, 2003, supply can be disconnected for non-payment only after the consumer has been given not less than fifteen clear days' notice in writing. A disconnection without such notice is not lawful, whatever the arrears position.
You can keep the lights on while you dispute a bill
The law does not force a consumer to choose between paying a disputed bill and losing supply. Under the proviso to Section 56(1), supply cannot be cut if the consumer deposits, under protest:
- the amount claimed by the DISCOM, or
- the amount the consumer admits to be due,
pending resolution of the dispute. Paying under protest protects both the supply and the consumer's right to contest the bill.
Very old dues: the two-year rule
Section 56(2) contains an important protection: no sum due from a consumer is recoverable — and supply cannot be disconnected for it — after two years from the date the amount first became due, unless it was continuously shown as arrears. Surprise demands for years-old amounts deserve careful scrutiny against this provision.
If supply has been wrongfully disconnected
- DISCOM complaint centre — lodge a complaint immediately and keep the complaint number; reconnection after payment is subject to timelines under the supply code.
- CGRF — the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum can hear wrongful disconnection grievances and has the power to grant interim relief, including directions for restoration of supply in urgent cases.
- Electricity Ombudsman — if the CGRF's order does not resolve the matter, a representation lies to the Ombudsman under Section 42(6).
Practical checklist
- Keep proof of every payment — receipts, bank statements, screenshots of online payments.
- Insist on the written notice; note the date of service and count the fifteen days.
- If the bill is disputed, pay under protest and say so in writing.
- After payment, if reconnection is delayed beyond the prescribed time, record the delay in a written complaint — compensation schemes exist under the regulations for defaults in service standards.
This note is for general information only and is not legal advice. Statutory provisions are subject to amendment and judicial interpretation; readers should verify the current position or take independent professional advice on their specific facts.