📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Pinakpani
Business
Supreme Court asks states, UTs to respond to plea on prolonged vacancies in power regulators
✍️ Daily Excelsior
🗓 10 Oct 2026, 07:36 AM
👁 11
The Supreme Court has directed all states and union territories to submit their responses to a petition highlighting extended vacancies in various power regulatory bodies across India.
The apex court issued a notice to every state and union territory, seeking their comments on a petition that alleges persistent vacancies in the leadership of several power regulatory agencies. The petition, filed by an unnamed petitioner, contends that the prolonged absence of appointed officials hampers efficient regulation of electricity tariffs, grid management and consumer protection.
In its order, the Supreme Court emphasized the need for timely appointments to ensure the smooth functioning of bodies such as the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission and various state electricity regulatory commissions. The court warned that continued delays could affect the stability of the power sector and the delivery of affordable electricity to consumers.
The states and UTs have been given a specific timeframe to file their responses, after which the court will decide on further remedial measures. Observers note that the issue reflects broader challenges in governance and the importance of robust regulatory oversight for India's growing energy demand.
In its order, the Supreme Court emphasized the need for timely appointments to ensure the smooth functioning of bodies such as the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission and various state electricity regulatory commissions. The court warned that continued delays could affect the stability of the power sector and the delivery of affordable electricity to consumers.
The states and UTs have been given a specific timeframe to file their responses, after which the court will decide on further remedial measures. Observers note that the issue reflects broader challenges in governance and the importance of robust regulatory oversight for India's growing energy demand.