Karnataka High Court Issues Notice on PIL Against Mandatory Installation of Smart Electricity Meters

The Karnataka High Court has issued notice to the state government and other authorities on a PIL challenging the compulsory installation of smart prepaid electricity meters even for existing consumers under KERC regulations. 

The petition, filed by senior advocate Lakshmy Iyengar, contends that the rollout is being forced without public consultation, causing a financial burden on consumers and allegedly violating their rights, and that all consumers would have to shift to smart meters. 

The petitioner argues that the implementation lacks transparency and accountability. A division bench sought responses from the government, BESCOM, and other petitioners. 

The matter is expected to be heard further after detailed responses are filed.