Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Human Rights Commission has recommended that the installation of smart electricity meters across the state may continue, while directing the Electricity Department to notify consumers before replacing existing working meters.
In its inquiry report dated October 16, 2026, in Proceeding No. 36/2026, the Commission observed that the installation of smart meters is mandated under the statutory framework of the Electricity Act, 2003. The inquiry was initiated suo motu following a newspaper report published in O Heraldo on May 9, 2026, titled “Govt’s ‘mandatory’ smart meter push sparks revolt.”
The Commission examined concerns relating to consumer rights, privacy, data protection and the alleged health risks associated with smart meters and their meshed network technology.
On privacy concerns, the Commission held that there was no material before it to establish that the collection of electricity consumption data violated consumers’ right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution. It also observed that the allegations regarding potential health hazards from radiation and network technology were not supported by data or expert reports.
The Commission clarified that it was not reviewing the government’s policy decision to install smart meters, but examining whether the manner of implementation violated human rights. It further noted that ownership of the installed meters rests with the distribution licensee or the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider, rather than the consumer.
While finding no human rights violation in the meter replacement process, the Commission acknowledged that there could be shortcomings in the implementation of the scheme.
Accordingly, it recommended that the Electricity Department proceed with replacing existing working meters after giving notice to consumers. Such notice may be endorsed on electricity bills area-wise or served in accordance with Section 171 of the Electricity Act, 2003, read with the applicable JERC Electricity Supply Code Regulations, 2018, and the Central Electricity Authority (Installation and Operation of Meters) Amendment Regulations, 2026.
The Commission also emphasised the need to create adequate public awareness about smart meters. It directed that a copy of the inquiry report be sent to the respondent, the Chief Electrical Engineer of the Electricity Department, Government of Goa, for comments on the action taken or proposed to be taken by December 18, 2026.
