Electricity theft cases are on the rise across Gujarat. In the past two years, inspections revealed that 2,82,164 consumers were illegally using electricity. Out of these, 1,52,602 were booked at police stations for theft worth ₹1,029 crore.
According to media reports, Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) has filed cases under 16 police stations due to the widespread theft. Despite provisions in the Indian Electricity Act, 2003— which includes fines and up to three years of imprisonment—thousands continue to steal power.
Surprise checks are regularly carried out by GUVNL’s four regional units:
- DGVCL (South Gujarat)
- MGVCL (Central Gujarat)
- UGVCL (North Gujarat)
- PGVCL (West Gujarat)
Those caught are asked to pay the amount of stolen electricity along with a penalty. If they fail to do so, a police complaint is lodged. PGVCL reported the highest number of theft cases.
In 2023–24, 1,50,920 illegal connections were found out of nearly 19.67 lakh inspections.
In 2024–25, 1,31,244 such cases were detected out of 18.92 lakh checks.
In total, 2,82,164 cases of power theft were found. While all were penalized, 1,52,602 failed to pay, resulting in police action.
Sources say some inspection teams even faced violence. In the past two years, 61 attacks—including stone pelting—have been reported during such drives, despite police escort.