‘Torrent Go Back’ Agitation Enters Day 3; Protesters Urge Maharashtra Govt Not To Extend Power Franchise Beyond 2027

The "Torrent Go Back" protest, spearheaded by the Bhiwandi Nyay Manch, is in its third day, with residents and political figures rallying against Torrent Power Limited's electricity distribution franchise in Bhiwandi city and rural regions. The demonstrators are advocating that the Maharashtra government evaluate the current distribution franchise arrangement and refrain from extending it beyond its expiration date in January 2027.

The Bhiwandi Nyay Manch submitted another representation to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis through the Sub-Divisional Officer Bhiwandi, urging a decision on the future of electricity distribution before the franchise ends. Torrent Power was granted the distribution franchise in Bhiwandi city and rural areas back in 2007, with the second term set to conclude in January 2027.

The Bhiwandi Nyay Manch argues that the government should assess the performance of the existing arrangement, considering the interests of electricity consumers, industries, businesses, and residents. Bhiwandi is a significant powerloom center, employing a large portion of the local population, and protesters claim that escalating electricity-related expenses, billing grievances, doubts about meter accuracy, and distribution system issues have exacerbated financial pressure on powerloom operators and small to medium-sized businesses.

The forum also highlights complaints from domestic consumers, especially middle-class and economically disadvantaged households, concerning electricity bills, meter-related problems, vigilance procedures, customer service, and distribution company operations. The Bhiwandi Nyay Manch contends that the franchise arrangement was implemented to ensure dependable and high-quality electricity supply to consumers.

They have urged the state government to review the current system and decide whether it should continue after January 2027. The Bhiwandi Nyay Manch further requests the government to consider giving a chance, in line with applicable rules and regulatory provisions, to other licensed electricity distribution companies, such as Tata Power or an eligible distribution company linked to the Adani Group, if the current franchise arrangement concludes.

The organization asserts that enabling other qualified entities to take part would foster competition, boost transparency, and elevate customer service and electricity distribution standards. They have previously presented their concerns twice to the state government and relevant authorities, but no decision has been made. The agitation, which commenced on October 5, could escalate if the government fails to take decisive action before the franchise expires.

When contacted, Torrent Power's Public Relations Officer, Chetan Badiyani, clarified that the company does not determine electricity tariff rates; instead, the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) sets them. Badiyani also stated that the company enforces action against suspected electricity theft following applicable rules and regulations.

Regarding the demand for another electricity distribution franchisee to operate in Bhiwandi, Badiyani noted that an interested company must formally express its interest and meet the necessary requirements.