TNI Bureau: The Congress party today staged a protest outside the Tata Power Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) office in Bhubaneswar, demanding the withdrawal of smart meters and the security deposit system. The protest was led by Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das, along with senior party leaders and hundreds of party workers.

Congress workers gheraoed the Tata Power office, alleging that the power utility is imposing an unfair financial burden on electricity consumers. During the protest, tensions rose when some protesters attempted to enter the office premises, prompting authorities to lock the main gate. Police and administrative officials were deployed to control the situation, which led to brief scuffles and chaos at the site.

Addressing the protesters, Bhakta Charan Das accused Tata Power of ignoring public concerns. He said consumers are being forced to pay additional security deposits without proper explanation or prior consultation. He also criticised the installation of smart meters, claiming they have increased the financial pressure on households.

The OPCC president further alleged that the power distribution company has failed to implement key welfare promises, including the supply of 300 units of free electricity and free power for farmers. He warned that if these issues are not addressed, the Congress would intensify its agitation.

Das cautioned that the protest would be expanded beyond Bhubaneswar and taken to villages across Odisha if the government and Tata Power do not withdraw the disputed measures. The demonstration highlights growing political opposition to power tariff-related policies in the state.