Electricity theft cases filed against 16 mosques, 2 madarasas, and an SP MP in Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh)

Over 1,400 cases registered; fines totalling ₹11 crore imposed

Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh) – The highest number of electricity theft cases in Uttar Pradesh has surfaced in Sambhal district. In just one month, 1,400 cases were registered under Section 135 of the Electricity Act. These include local Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq, 16 mosques, and 2 madarasas. The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has imposed fines amounting to ₹11 crore for these cases. Of this, ₹20 lakh has been recovered, while the remaining amount is yet to be collected.

A verification drive was conducted by the administration starting 16.12.2024, uncovering these instances of electricity theft. During this operation, the residence of MP Barq was also inspected, revealing electricity theft. Subsequently, a fine of ₹1.91 crore was imposed on him.

Editorial Perspectives

  • If such rampant electricity theft is occurring in just Sambhal, imagine how many mosques and madarasas across the country might be doing the same thing ! Why aren’t other Governments taking such action ?
  • The public must now raise this question – “What purpose does subsidising such madarasas serve ?”