Opposition protests at Bijuli Bhavan over smart meter issues in Assam

The United Opposition Forum - Assam, comprising 18 political parties, staged a massive protest today by gheraoing Bijuli Bhavan, the headquarters of the Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL). Thousands of participants, including MPs, MLAs, and opposition leaders like Debabrata Saikia, Lurinjyoti Gogoi, and Ajit Kumar Bhuyan, voiced their grievances over the recent implementation of prepaid smart meters across the state.

Assam Congress President Bhupen Borah said that the installation of these new meters has led to an alarming increase in electricity bills, with many residents reporting their charges doubling overnight. He condemned the state government, asserting that the financial strain on citizens is exacerbated by what he called a scheme to "extort money from ordinary people."

"The issue of prepaid smart meters is one of the biggest concerns affecting the people of Assam today," Borah said. "This government’s move is nothing but a financial burden on an already struggling populace."