Jharkhand cracks down on power theft: 1,112 FIRs, ₹1.79 cr fine in 2-day statewide raids

The Anti-Power Theft (APT) unit of the Jharkhand State Electricity Distribution Corporation Limited (JSEDCL) conducted a two-day special operation across the state targeting electricity theft. A total of 7,413 premises were inspected, leading to the registration of 1,112 FIRs and the imposition of ₹1.79 crore in fines against consumers found involved in illegal power usage.

District-wise data shows Hazaribagh recorded the highest number of cases, with 126 FIRs and fines amounting to ₹27.93 lakh. Ranchi reported 112 FIRs with ₹17.62 lakh in penalties, while Jamshedpur registered 79 FIRs resulting in fines of ₹18.27 lakh. Other significant actions were taken in Sahibganj with 97 FIRs and ₹13.75 lakh fines, and Deoghar with 60 FIRs and ₹15.81 lakh fines.

The operation also covered Gumla (63 FIRs, ₹9.64 lakh), Chaibasa (71 FIRs, ₹7.79 lakh), Dhanbad (63 FIRs, ₹12.69 lakh), Chas (81 FIRs, ₹11.78 lakh), Daltonganj (94 FIRs, ₹10.99 lakh), Garhwa (41 FIRs, ₹5.69 lakh), Dumka (58 FIRs, ₹6.93 lakh), Giridih (79 FIRs, ₹11.19 lakh), and Ramgarh (37 FIRs, ₹3.62 lakh).

Officials stated that such raids are part of regular enforcement measures to address power theft in high-loss areas. The APT unit has indicated that similar inspections will continue across various districts to curb illegal electricity usage and ensure recovery of dues from defaulters.