Itanagar, June 19:
The United Arunachal People’s Forum (UAPF) on Friday served a 14-day ultimatum to the Arunachal Pradesh government, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the smart prepaid electricity meter system and restoration of the conventional postpaid billing mechanism. The forum also raised several other public issues and warned of launching a democratic movement if its demands are not addressed within the stipulated period.
Addressing the media, UAPF President Khyoda Daniel alleged that the smart prepaid meter system has become an additional burden on economically weaker households. He said many consumers, particularly those with limited financial resources, face difficulties in recharging their meters on time, leading to disruptions in electricity supply.
Daniel further stated that service and convenience charges associated with prepaid recharges have created inconvenience for consumers, especially elderly citizens, residents of remote areas with limited access to digital payment facilities, and those unfamiliar with digital technologies. He claimed that similar systems have faced opposition in various parts of the country and questioned the rationale behind imposing additional burdens on consumers in Arunachal Pradesh.
The forum also urged the state government to formulate a power subsidy policy for economically weaker sections and the general public, similar to schemes implemented in several other states. Daniel noted that Arunachal Pradesh possesses immense hydropower potential and argued that consumers should benefit from subsidized electricity.
“Electricity is no longer a luxury but a basic necessity essential for education, healthcare, communication, and livelihoods. The government must seriously consider providing relief to consumers,” he said.
Apart from the power sector, the UAPF demanded the de-reservation or rationalization of forest boundaries within the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) and adjoining areas. The forum pointed out that large portions of the capital region were declared as Durpang Reserved Forest and Wildlife Sanctuary in 1979 under the Assam Forest Regulation, 1891, when Arunachal Pradesh was still a Union Territory.
According to the forum, rapid urbanization and population growth in the capital region over the decades warrant a review of existing forest boundaries. It urged the government to undertake rationalization measures in line with present-day developmental and residential requirements.
The UAPF also sought the constitution of a High-Level Enquiry Committee (HLEC) through the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to investigate the sanction, execution, and expenditure of funds related to the Dari–Chambang road project in Kra Daadi district since 2004. The forum demanded a transparent and impartial probe into the alleged misuse of public funds associated with the project.
The organization stated that failure to address its demands within 14 days could compel it to initiate democratic and peaceful forms of public agitation.
