Sat May 31 14:07:34 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A workshop was held in Mysuru, India, focusing on equipping electricity officials with the legal knowledge needed to effectively resolve consumer grievances at the local level. Speakers emphasized that many consumer complaints could be resolved quickly by local officials who are dedicated and knowledgeable, preventing escalation to legal channels. Key points included the importance of understanding electricity laws, addressing the lack of public awareness regarding complaint forums, and the need for accessible information about complaint procedures.
**News Article:**
**Consumer Grievance Resolution Prioritized at Karnataka Electricity Workshop**
**MYSURU, May 31, 2025** – A legal workshop aimed at improving the resolution of consumer complaints within Karnataka’s electricity sector took place today in Mysuru. Organized jointly by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) and the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC), the event focused on equipping local officials with the legal understanding necessary to handle consumer grievances effectively.
“Consumer complaints can be effectively resolved at the officer level itself, thereby avoiding legal escalation,” stated Ramesh Bandisidde Gowda, MLA and chairman of CESC, during his address. He emphasized that prompt and serious attention to consumer issues by local officials could significantly reduce the number of cases reaching courts or regulatory bodies.
KERC member H.K. Jagadish highlighted the importance of legal literacy, tracing the evolution of electricity laws from the first act in 1887 to the current Electricity Act of 2003. He noted that consumers are now central stakeholders in the regulatory framework alongside transmission and distribution considerations.
Addressing the need for greater public awareness, KERC member Javed Akhtar pointed out that many consumers are unaware of formal complaint forums. He urged electricity supply companies (Escoms) to prominently display complaint procedures on websites, mobile apps, and notice boards.
The workshop, attended by chairpersons, members, and officials of consumer grievance redressal forums, featured technical presentations following the inauguration. Senior officials including KERC secretary Siddeshwar, Mysuru zone chief engineer D.J. Divakar, and CESC chief financial officer G. Renuka were also present.
The event underscores a commitment to improving customer service within Karnataka’s electricity sector by empowering local officials to resolve issues efficiently and effectively.
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