CPI(M) Holds Peaceful Sit-in Protest in Karbook Against Rising Power Tariffs and Smart Meters

Karbook | In a strong display of public discontent, the CPI(M) Karbook Sub-Divisional Committee on Tuesday organized a peaceful sit-in demonstration (Gana Dharna) in Karbook. The protest, which began at 11:00 AM and continued till 12:00 PM, drew hundreds of CPI(M) supporters from across the subdivision.

The demonstration was called to oppose the recent hike in electricity tariffs and express resistance to the state-wide rollout of smart meters, which many claim will disproportionately impact poor and rural consumers.

Among the prominent faces at the protest were former MLA Priyo Mani Debbarma and active youth leader Mogendra Reang, who both addressed the gathering and voiced concern over what they termed as “anti-people policies” of the current government.

“The rising electricity rates are unbearable for the common people. Now with smart meters, people are paying more without even understanding the billing system,” said Mogendra Reang during the dharna.

Protesters carried placards and banners demanding a rollback of the increased tariffs and a halt to the compulsory installation of smart meters without public consent.

Speakers at the event criticized the TSECL for lacking transparency and called for a more accountable and people-friendly energy policy.

The demonstration concluded peacefully, with CPI(M) leaders submitting a memorandum to TSECL officials, urging the state government to consider the grievances of the people before moving forward with any further changes.

By Choba Tripura