RJD Protests Against Smart Prepaid Meters in Bihar

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) organized statewide protests in Bihar against the installation of smart prepaid electricity meters, claiming the initiative is designed to benefit private power companies at the expense of consumers. RJD leaders allege that these meters have led to a significant increase in electricity bills, disproportionately affecting poor households. Protests occurred at numerous block offices, with party representatives accusing the Nitish Kumar government of pressuring officials to enforce these installations. They assert that the government's actions are an 'extortion' of money from the populace, particularly impacting those unable to pay the inflated bills. RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad emphasized that the government is prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare, demanding immediate cessation of the meter installations. With approximately 2.76 crore households in Bihar, any additional charges from these meters could result in substantial profits for power companies, further burdening consumers.