Digital Goa, June 2 – The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has decided to appoint an amicus curiae to systematically hear and address public grievances related to the ongoing deployment of smart electricity meters across the state. The decision was taken during a hearing after the Commission last month took suo motu cognisance of complaints and concerns raised by citizens over the project. During the proceedings, the Commission observed that Goa has around 7.5 lakh electricity consumers and noted that allowing individual intervention applications from a large number of consumers could make the process unmanageable. To streamline the hearing of complaints, the GHRC said an amicus curiae (a neutral legal advisor) assisting the Commission, would be appointed to receive and examine grievances from consumers and petitioners. The Commission had summoned officials of the Electricity Department and petitioners to present their views on the matter. While citizens and activists raised concerns over mandatory installation, consumer consent, data privacy and the implications of a prepaid billing system, the Electricity Department defended the project and highlighted the benefits offered by smart meters, including improved billing accuracy and reduced power losses. The GHRC has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for June 24.
