Agartala, March 06, 2026: The drive against electricity theft in Tripura has been intensified with the state government adopting a strict zero-tolerance policy against illegal power use through hook lines. Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath has directed the authorities to take firm legal action against offenders and ensure that no concession is given to those involved in power theft.

The minister stated that electricity theft not only causes substantial financial loss to the government but also affects the quality of service provided to legitimate consumers. “Power thieves will not be spared under any circumstances. All necessary legal measures must be taken to stop such practices,” he said, urging consumers to cooperate with the authorities in the ongoing drive.

According to the Managing Director of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited, Biswajit Basu, vigilance activities have been significantly strengthened across the state following the minister’s instructions. Regular raids are being conducted in different areas to detect illegal hook lines, disconnect unauthorized connections and initiate action against those involved in electricity theft.

Official statistics reveal that from the financial year 2018-19 to February 28 of the current financial year 2025-26, a total of 54,604 illegal hook lines have been identified and disconnected across the state. During this eight-year period, penalties amounting to over ₹14.16 crore were imposed on electricity thieves, of which more than ₹11.21 crore has already been recovered.

The data also shows that enforcement has intensified in the last two financial years. In 2024-25, a total of 9,942 hook lines were disconnected and fines of ₹3.87 crore were imposed, with ₹3.11 crore recovered. In the ongoing 2025-26 financial year, till February 28, authorities have already disconnected 9,805 hook lines and imposed fines of ₹3.63 crore, of which ₹3.18 crore has been collected.

The vigilance squad was particularly active in February 2026, conducting 83 major operations across various power sub-divisions in the state. During the month, 772 hook lines were disconnected, 1,643 electricity meters were tested and 186 meters were found to be tampered with. Authorities imposed fines amounting to ₹37.75 lakh and recovered ₹36.19 lakh, including arrears. Additionally, 283 electricity connections were permanently disconnected for rule violations.

Basu said electricity theft through hook lines not only causes huge financial losses but also puts pressure on the power supply system, often leading to voltage fluctuations and load shedding for genuine consumers. Preventing such practices, he added, will help ensure a more stable and uninterrupted electricity supply across the state.

The corporation reiterated that hooking and meter tampering are punishable offences and warned that stricter action will be taken against violators. Authorities have also appealed to citizens to use legal electricity connections and report any cases of power theft to the concerned officials.