The Uttar Pradesh Power Department has fined Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq Rs 1.91 crore over allegations of electricity theft. This follows a police investigation into alleged electricity theft at his residence in the Deepa Sarai area of Sambhal.
On Thursday, accompanied by a substantial police presence, the Power Department raided Barq’s home after suspicions were raised regarding potential electricity meter tampering. The inspection uncovered irregularities with two electricity meters at the property.
Officials found that despite the presence of air conditioners, ceiling fans, and other electrical appliances, the electricity bill for the past year showed zero consumption. This discrepancy raised serious concerns and heightened suspicions. Santosh Kumar Tripathi, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) for the department, confirmed these findings but declined to comment further until a full investigation is completed.
Advocate Kasim Jamal, representing Barq, stated that the household pays minimum charges as assessed by the department. He also explained the house is equipped with solar panels, alongside the usual appliances like air conditioners, ceiling fans, lights, and a refrigerator.
The power department had previously replaced the old meters at Barq’s residence. These were sealed and sent for laboratory testing. The 200-square-yard property initially had a 4-kilowatt meter, which was later deemed insufficient.
An FIR has also been filed against Mamluk Ur Rehman Barq, the MP’s father, at the Nakhasa police station. He is accused of threatening Power Department officials during the inspection. The complaint, lodged by Santosh Tripathi, cites Sections 352, 351(2), and 132 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
(With IANS Inputs)