Vasai man attempts self-immolation at MSEDCL office after power disconnected
An electricity consumer attempted self-immolation inside the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) office in Vasai on Friday afternoon after his power supply was disconnected over an allegedly inflated bill. The resident, identified as Ajay Kumar Tripathi of the Umelman area in Vasai, poured petrol over himself but was quickly restrained by alert staff and citizens, averting a tragedy.
Tripathi had recently had his old electricity meter replaced with a new Smart Meter by MSEDCL. According to Tripathi, his electricity bill skyrocketed unexpectedly to over Rs 14,000 following the installation of the new meter.
Distressed by the high amount, Tripathi made multiple visits to the MSEDCL office to lodge complaints. He alleged that the MSEDCL administration ignored his grievances and failed to resolve the issue. Subsequently, MSEDCL disconnected the power supply to his residence due to the unpaid dues.
Angered by the disconnection, Tripathi arrived at the Vasai office on Friday afternoon carrying petrol. He abruptly poured the liquid over his body and attempted to set himself on fire, triggering panic and chaos among the staff and visiting citizens.
Nearby staff members and citizens intervened quickly, restraining Tripathi and snatching the petrol container from his hands. Following the incident, Tripathi was rushed to the Municipal Corporation's Sir D.M. Petit Hospital. Doctors confirmed that he did not sustain serious injuries and is currently in stable condition.
In the wake of the incident, MSEDCL restored the power supply to Tripathi's residence. The administration stated that a thorough inspection of his meter is currently underway.
MSEDCL authorities clarified that after Tripathi's initial complaint, his burnt meter was replaced, and they explained to him that his power consumption remained consistent. They stated that the consumer strongly opposed the Smart Meter and issued threats after his power was disconnected, prompting them to temporarily restore the connection.
According to MSEDCL, the consumer attempted suicide due to a refusal to accept the Smart Meter and a failure to understand the government's policy. The on-duty staff acted swiftly to save his life, and the police have been formally notified of the incident.
