Major Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Dimapur have voiced strong opposition to the forced implementation of prepaid electricity meters in the district, citing lack of groundwork, infrastructure gaps, and concerns over equitable rollout.

The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF), GB Union Dimapur Sadar (GBUD), and Dimapur District GB Association (DDGBA) convened a joint meeting on May 20, at Duncan Council Hall to deliberate on the matter.

Addressing the media, DDGBA President K. Hokuto Zhimomi said that while prepaid meters were introduced in 2024 in areas such as Marwari Patti and commercial areas, the plan to expand them to 16,000 units across Dimapur within a year by 2025 are unrealistic without basic groundwork.

He clarified that the CSOs are not opposed to the idea of prepaid meters but are appealing for a phased and fair implementation and said that, there is a need to replace outdated transformers in areas like 97 Colony, upgrade aluminum wiring, and properly install electric poles first.

Zhimomi alleged that their appeal was misunderstood by the state government, leading to administrative actions by the Home Commissioner, through the Police Commissioner, which they perceived as targeting the GBs unfairly.

He further emphasized the need for the power department to prioritize installing prepaid meters in government offices, industries, and commercial establishments, many of which reportedly have unpaid electricity dues spanning over 15 years, before rolling them out to the general public.

He said that despite Nagaland having 17 districts, prepaid meters are being enforced only in Dimapur, urging the state cabinet to ensure uniform implementation across districts and sectors.

DUCCF Vice President Wojamo Yanthan echoed the sentiment, stating that Nagaland has an opposition-less government. In this vacuum, CSOs have become the de facto voice of the people. He questioned why only Dimapur is being prioritized, despite central government guidelines directing prepaid meter installation in government buildings by December 2023 and in public areas by March 2025.

Yanthan further questioned whether the government had met this deadline in its own offices and called for proper maintenance and functionality before further rollout.

He noted that while commercial building owners are being asked to install transformers, domestic consumers should be given more time and added that they urge the department not to enforce meter installations by force in residential colonies.

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DUCCF President Zasivikho Zakiesato stated that most shops in Dimapur already have prepaid meters, and reiterated that public awareness and education about the system must be improved and said that people need clarity and confidence before adopting such changes.

Zakiesato also expressed concerns about the perceived sidelining of community leaders post-ULB elections, stating that the GBs and chairmen were caretakers of public concerns before the elections and the government cannot ignore their role now.

Regarding the revenue deficit, Yanthan refuted claims that it was primarily due to non-payment by consumers. He stated that the CSOs had asked the power department to share any billing irregularities so they could be addressed. However, he maintained that the root causes of the shortfall appear to be known only to the department itself.

On sanitation fee and local issues: The sanitation fee hike from Rs. 60 to Rs. 80 post-ULB election was also questioned by the CSOs, who pointed out that service frequency had dropped despite the increased fee. They alleged lack of transparency, especially as the central government had provided funds post-election.

On the Midland Council issue, DUCCF Finance Secretary Akusu Zeliang stated that the matter was amicably resolved between the Midland colony Council and DUCCF through mutual discussions. Regarding the Government Middle School Midland issue, Zeliang confirmed that further discussions are expected and reiterated DUCCF’s commitment to constructive engagement.

He added that a formal request will be submitted to the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) to grant the Midland Council time to stabilize its operations. The fact finding committee investigating the GMS Midland matter will continue its work.

The CSOs further appeal to the state government to adopt a consultative, phased, and infrastructure-ready approach to the prepaid metering rollout to avoid confusion, resistance, and public hardship.