Smart Meter Tampering in Bihar has come under the spotlight after power officials uncovered a high-tech electricity theft racket. The case surfaced in Nalanda district, where consumers used hidden chips and remote controls to manipulate smart meters.
During inspections in Kashmirichak and Mandach areas, officials noticed unusually low power readings at commercial units. On closer checks, teams found that the smart meters had been opened and fitted with electronic chips.
These chips allowed users to stop or reduce meter readings with a remote while running heavy machinery. In one case, a flour and oil mill with a 10 kW connection showed almost no power usage. Officials recovered the remote and imposed a fine of around ₹7.8 lakh.
Another case involved a 15 kW commercial connection. The actual load did not match the recorded consumption. When the meter was examined, a chip was found inside. Authorities fined the consumer more than ₹27 lakh.
In total, Smart Meter Tampering in Bihar led to penalties of nearly ₹35 lakh. The electricity department also lodged FIRs against the offenders.
Officials warned that electricity theft is a serious crime. They said surprise inspections will continue to stop such misuse and protect government revenue.
