Bihar Introduces Direct Access to Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum for Electricity Issues

Patna: In the case of unresolved electricity issues, Bihar consumers can directly approach the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) without the need for a lawyer or any fees. Consumers are also free to present their arguments on their own. The new system enables filing complaints at facility centers within their division, eliminating the need to visit CGRF offices. Complaints can be submitted both online and offline, and CGRF has been established in 20 cities across the state.

If a consumer is dissatisfied with the CGRF’s decision, they can appeal to the Electricity Ombudsman at the company’s headquarters. No lawyer or fee is required for this appeal either. Should the consumer still be unsatisfied, they can approach the High Court.

If the electricity company fails to comply with a CGRF ruling, the consumer can escalate the matter to the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission, which may impose fines of up to Rs 1 lakh on the responsible company officers for non-compliance.

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission has instructed electricity companies to accept complaints for CGRF at facility centers within divisions to ease the process for consumers. After the case is admitted, a notice will be sent to both the consumer and the electricity company for resolution.