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How to Appeal Electricity Bill Disputes in Basavanagudi?

Electricity bills can sometimes feel like a surprise waiting to happen. One month you pay a reasonable amount; the next, you’re staring at a bill that’s two or three times higher. If you live in Basavanagudi—a historic and bustling neighborhood in South Bangalore—you’re not alone. Many residents here have faced puzzling or seemingly inflated electricity bills from Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM).

This guide will walk you through every step to appeal and resolve electricity bill disputes in Basavanagudi. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to challenge a wrong or inflated bill, what timelines to follow, and what to expect at each stage—all while keeping the process as stress-free as possible. Let’s begin!

1. Understanding Your BESCOM Electricity Bill

Before you can dispute a bill, it helps to know what charges appear on a typical BESCOM bill and how to read it.

  1. Basic Components of a BESCOM Bill
    • Consumer Number/Account Number: A unique ID assigned to your meter. Every complaint or transaction refers to this number.
    • Bill Month & Due Date: The month for which you’re being billed and the last date for payment.
    • Meter Reader’s Details & Reading: Shows the previous and current meter readings (in units/kWh).
    • Energy Charges (₹ per unit): Based on your tariff category (domestic, commercial, etc.). BESCOM’s domestic tariff in 2025 typically ranges from ₹3.75 to ₹8.50 per unit, depending on slab consumption (first 0–200 units at a lower rate, next 201–400 units at a higher rate, and so on). bescom.co.in
    • Fixed Charges: A flat monthly charge that depends on your sanctioned load (e.g., ₹50–₹100 for a 1 kW residential connection).
    • Fuel Adjustment Charges (FAC): Variable charge reflecting national fuel price fluctuations. May add ₹0.50–₹1.25 per unit in 2025.
    • Meter Rent: Typically ₹10–₹30 per month for domestic consumers.
    • Taxes & Duties: Karnataka state electricity duty (4–5%), municipal electrical tax (1–3%), and other statutory levies.
    • Arrears/Adjustments: Any unpaid amounts from previous bills or adjustments made (credit or debit).
    • Total Amount Payable: Sum of all the above, due by the due date.
  2. Key Terminology to Note
    • “Units Consumed”: The difference between current reading and previous reading. Check that this matches your meter.
    • “Tariff Code”: Indicates your consumption category (e.g., D1 for domestic ≤2 kW, D2 for domestic 2–5 kW). Make sure you’re on the correct code—sometimes clerical errors assign a higher tariff.
    • “Subsidies”: If you’re eligible (e.g., senior citizen, veteran), a subsidy may reduce your total. Ensure it appears correctly.
    • “Due Date”: Payment after this date incurs a late fee (₹20 or up to 2% of the bill).
  3. How to Spot a Dispute
    • Abrupt Spike in Units: If your household consumption pattern hasn’t changed (no new appliances), yet your units suddenly spiked by 50–100% compared to last month.
    • Estimated Reading: If the “Current Reading” is marked “Estimated” instead of an actual meter reading—sometimes BESCOM estimates high.
    • Wrong Tariff Code: If your bill shows a commercial (C) or industrial (I) tariff instead of residential (D).
    • Incorrect Sanctioned Load: If BESCOM shows 5 kW when your actual sanctioned load is 2 kW, fixed charges will be higher.

Once you identify what seems off, you’re ready to gather evidence and raise the issue.

2. Common Reasons for Bill Disputes

Understanding why disputes occur helps you frame your complaint. In Basavanagudi, typical causes include:

  1. Faulty or Tampered Meter
    • A malfunctioning meter can record extra units. Sometimes waterlogging or rodent damage affects meter accuracy.
    • If you suspect the meter is faulty, check your kilo-watt‐hour (kWh) meter display—look for odd numbers or symbols indicating “Error.”
  2. Estimated Bills Instead of Actual Meter Reading
    • If BESCOM couldn’t physically access your meter (locked gate, meter hidden), they estimate based on past usage, which can overshoot.
    • Estimated readings are labeled “Est.” Compare the estimated reading to your last actual reading and file a complaint if it’s way off. reddit.com.
  3. Incorrect Meter Reading Entry
    • The meter reader may punch in “5000” instead of “0050,” causing a 100× error.
    • Always note your own meter reading on the bill date to cross-check.
  4. Tariff Mismatch
    • If your flat in Basavanagudi is registered under the wrong category (e.g., commercial code D6 instead of domestic D1), you’ll be billed at a higher rate.
    • Tariffs also vary between LT (Low Tension) Domestic and LT Industrial; ensure your category is correct.
  5. Incorrect Sanctioned Load
    • BESCOM fixes “Fixed Charges” based on sanctioned load (in kW or HP). If your load is shown as 5 kW instead of 2 kW, you pay more fixed charges.
    • Check your sanction letter or the front page of the bill for your load.
  6. Pending Arrears or Adjustment Errors
    • Sometimes a payment you made (online or at Bangalore One center) doesn’t reflect, so BESCOM adds it as arrears.
    • If you paid through Bangalore One or online portal, keep screenshots or receipts to prove payment.
  7. New Connection or Shift of Occupancy
    • If you recently moved into a Basavanagudi flat, but BESCOM didn’t update the “Previous Owner” or “New Consumer ID” properly, your bill could still reflect the old occupant’s arrears or usage.
    • Verify your Consumer ID matches the one given to you at the time of application (at BESCOM N2 Office, KR Market Road).
  8. Load Test or Meter Testing Pending
    • If you requested a meter test (to verify accuracy), BESCOM can bill a fixed deposit (around ₹300) and test free if faulty. However, during the test period, bills may show an estimated load.
    • If the final testing shows meter accuracy within ±2%, the test charge is non-refundable.

Knowing these causes, gather the specifics of your case to build a solid complaint.

3. Gathering Documents & Evidence

Before lodging any complaint, collect all the documents and evidence you’ll need. This speeds up the resolution process and reduces back and forth.

  1. Recent Electricity Bills
    • Keep the last 6–12 months of BESCOM bills handy. Compare month-to-month consumption (units). If there’s a sudden spike, highlight it.
  2. Meter Readings & Photographs
    • On the bill date (or as close as possible), take a photo of your meter reading. Note the date and time stamp.
    • Keep a log of your weekly or biweekly meter readings in a simple notebook. This helps detect if the BESCOM-recorded reading drastically deviates.
  3. Tariff Category Document
    • Obtain the copy of your sanction letter from BESCOM (also called “Load Sanction Certificate”). It mentions your category (D1, D2) and sanctioned load (e.g., 2 kW). This letter is proof if BESCOM bills you under the wrong tariff.
  4. Payment Receipts
    • Digital receipts from BESCOM portal, Bangalore One, or printouts from Karnataka One website. Include screenshots for clarity. This shows you paid on time.
  5. Complaint History & Reference Numbers
    • If you’ve already called or registered a complaint on 1912 or via the “Mithra” app, note the Complaint Reference Number (e.g., CRN: 123456). BESCOM typically responds within 3–7 working days.
  6. Meter Test Request (If Any)
    • If you asked BESCOM for a meter test, keep the Meter Test Application Form copy and the acknowledgment given by the BESCOM office. You’ll need this when escalating.
  7. Any Correspondence
    • Save emails or WhatsApp conversations with BESCOM representatives (for instance, messages to 9449844640). These show that you attempted to resolve the issue informally. .
  8. Identification Proof & Consumer Details
    • Keep copies of your Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, and Property Tax Receipt for your Basavanagudi address. You’ll need these for formal appeals.

Having all these documents organized in a folder or digital drive will make each step smoother and faster.

4. Step 1: Informal Complaint via BESCOM Customer Care

Often, many disputes come from simple clerical errors that BESCOM can rectify quickly. The first and fastest step is to approach BESCOM’s customer care informally.

4.1 Calling the 1912 BESCOM Helpline

  • Toll-free Number: Dial 1912 from your landline or mobile (available 24×7) bescom.karnataka.gov.in.
  • What to Say:
    • Give your Consumer Number.
    • Specify the nature of dispute (e.g., “My March 2025 bill shows 725 units, but my meter reading is 365 units. Please verify.”).
    • Request a formal complaint registration. Do not get confused by any “pricing drama” they may mention—be firm that you want a written complaint (CRN). reddit.com.
  • What to Expect:
    • The agent provides a Complaint Reference Number (CRN).
    • They promise to inspect within 3–7 working days.
    • You should receive an SMS with the CRN and a tentative resolution date.
  • Follow-Up:
    • If no action in 7 working days, call again with your CRN and ask for an update.
    • If they say “We visited but didn’t find any issue,” insist on a meter reading sheet from the visiting officer.

4.2 Online Grievance Registration via BESCOM Portal

  • Website: Visit the BESCOM consumer portal at bescom.co.in.
  • Steps:
    • Click on “Online Grievance Registration” or “Consumer Dashboard” bescom.co.in.
    • Log in with your RR/Consumer Number, registered mobile number, and OTP.
    • Navigate to “Register Complaint” → Choose “Billing Related” → Provide details (Consumer Number, complaint category, description, and attach a photo of the disputed bill).
    • Hit “Submit”. You’ll get an email and SMS with the complaint number.
  • What to Expect:
    • BESCOM promises a response within 7 working days.
    • You can track status on the portal—no need to keep calling.

4.3 WhatsApp Complaint to 9449844640

  • Number: 9449844640 is BESCOM’s official WhatsApp line for general complaints bescom.karnataka.gov.in.
  • Procedure:
    • Save the number and send “Hi” to initiate.
    • Follow the automated menu: Press “1” for Billing Issues, then “2” for High Bill Dispute.
    • Enter your Consumer Number and description (e.g., “July 2025 bill shows 675 units but my reading is 350 units”).
    • Attach a photo of the meter reading and the bill.
  • What to Expect:
    • You’ll receive a WhatsApp confirmation with the CRN.
    • BESCOM may respond with a request for more information or schedule a site visit.

These three informal channels often solve simple disputes quickly. If, however, there’s no satisfactory resolution within 10–12 working days, it’s time to escalate to a formal grievance process.

5. Step 2: Formal Grievance to BESCOM’s Internal Grievance Redressal Cell (IGRC)

If the informal complaint yields no resolution, the next step is to file a formal grievance with BESCOM’s Internal Grievance Redressal Cell (IGRC), also called the Consumer Grievance Redressal Cell (CGRC) or IGRC/IGCC.

5.1 What Is IGRC?

  • Every ESCOM (Electricity Supply Company) in Karnataka, including BESCOM, is required by the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) to set up an Internal Grievance Redressal Cell (IGRC) at divisional or circle level. .
  • IGRC is typically headed by a senior BESCOM officer (like the Assistant Executive Engineer), assisted by Consumer Relations Officers.

5.2 How to File a Grievance with IGRC

  1. Obtain the IGRC Form
    • Download from the BESCOM website (under “Downloadable Forms”). Look for “Bill Adjustment Petition” or “Grievance Application” form bescom.karnataka.gov.in.
    • You can also collect a physical form from your local BESCOM office (the sub-division office in Basavanagudi or Shivajinagar).
  2. Fill Out the IGRC Form
    • Section A: Consumer Details: Name, Address (Basavanagudi), Consumer Number, Tariff Category, and Contact Number.
    • Section B: Grievance Details:
      • Bill Number & Date: The disputed bill.
      • Units Billed vs. Actual Units: Provide your meter readings.
      • Grounds for Dispute: (e.g., Wrong meter reading, Tariff code incorrect, Faulty meter).
      • Action Requested: Specify what you want (e.g., “Re‐check meter, revise bill to 350 units”).
    • Attach copies of:
      • Disputed bills (last 6 months).
      • Photo of meter reading.
      • Any prior complaint CRN and response.
      • Payment receipts (if you paid a disputed amount).
  3. Submit the Form
    • Submit the completed form and attachments at your Basavanagudi BESCOM Sub Division Office (address below).
    • Ask for an acknowledgment receipt with the IGRC Application Number and the expected timeline (usually 30 days).
  4. BESCOM’s IGRC Response Timeline
    • By KERC rules, the IGRC must address your grievance and respond within 30 days of receiving the application.
    • If the IGRC does not provide a resolution within the time frame, or if you’re not satisfied with the decision, you can escalate to the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF).

Make sure you keep copies of all documents and note the IGRC Application Number. This will be necessary when moving to the next step.

6. Step 3: Escalation to the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF)

If the IGRC fails to resolve your dispute or their resolution is unsatisfactory, you have the right to escalate to the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF). Each BESCOM zone maintains a CGRF.

6.1 What Is CGRF?

  • CGRF is a statutory body constituted under the Electricity Act, 2003 and KERC regulations. It hears grievances from electricity consumers who are not satisfied with the IGRC’s decisions. .
  • There is no fee for CGRF petitions.

6.2 Jurisdiction & Time Limit

  • Jurisdiction: CGRF covers disputes related to electricity supply, service quality, and billing errors for BESCOM consumers in that zone (Basavanagudi falls under the Bengaluru Urban CGRF).
  • Time Limit: File within 30 days of the IGRC’s order or the expiry of the 30-day IGRC response period, whichever comes first.

6.3 How to File a CGRF Petition

  1. Obtain the CGRF Complaint Form
    • Online: Download the CGRF Application Form from the BESCOM CGRF portal or ask the IGRC for a copy.
    • Offline: Collect it from the local CGRF office (addresses below).
  2. Fill Out the CGRF Form
    • Consumer Details: Name, address, Consumer Number, contact number, email.
    • IGRC Details: State the IGRC Application Number, date of IGRC decision (or date when 30 days lapsed). Attach a copy of the IGRC order or a note stating “No response by IGRC.”
    • Grievance Details:
      • Mention facts of the case (e.g., “On 10th June 2025, BESCOM billed 725 units though my photo evidence shows 365 units. IGRC case No. 15/June/2025 yielded no change.”).
      • Attach supporting documents: all disputed bills, meter photos, IGRC acknowledgement, any emails or WhatsApp chats with BESCOM.
    • Relief Sought: Clearly state what you want—bill revision, refund of excess payment, or waiver of late fees.
  3. Submit the Form
    • In Person: Go to the Bengaluru Urban CGRF Office (address below) and submit the form with attachments.
    • By Post: Send the application by registered post with acknowledgment to the CGRF address (so you have proof of delivery).
  4. CGRF Hearing Process
    • Once accepted, CGRF assigns a hearing date, typically within 30 days of receipt.
    • You or your authorized representative must attend the hearing in person. BESCOM’s official will also be present.
    • CGRF may ask for additional evidence or request a fresh meter reading by an independent official.
    • Final Order: CGRF will issue a written order within 45 days of the hearing, binding BESCOM to comply.

6.4 CGRF Contact Details for Bengaluru Urban Zone

  • CGRF Address:
    Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF)
    Bengaluru Urban Zone
    BESCOM Consumer Relations Office,
    No. 12, J.P. Avenue,
    Curve Road, Tasker Town,
    Shivajinagar, Bengaluru – 560051
    Phone: 080-23205374 / 080-23205375
     Email: sewest@bescom.co.in
  • Operating Hours:
    Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (except government holidays).

Keep track of your application number and mark the hearing date in your calendar. If you miss the hearing, CGRF can dismiss your petition.

7. Step 4: Appeal to the Electricity Ombudsman

If CGRF’s order does not resolve your issue to your satisfaction, you can make a final appeal to the Electricity Ombudsman (EO) under KERC regulations.

7.1 What Is the Electricity Ombudsman?

  • The Electricity Ombudsman is an independent authority appointed by KERC to review CGRF decisions. The Ombudsman can either confirm, modify, or set aside the CGRF order. .
  • Filing with the Ombudsman is free of cost if done within the stipulated time.

7.2 Time Limit & Jurisdiction

  • You must file the appeal within 30 days of the CGRF’s written order. If you miss this deadline, you lose the right to appeal to the Ombudsman.
  • The Ombudsman’s jurisdiction covers all ESCOMs in Karnataka, including BESCOM.

7.3 How to File an Appeal with the Electricity Ombudsman

  1. Obtain the Ombudsman Appeal Form
    • Download from the KERC website (under “Consumer Protection” or “Ombudsman” section).
    • Alternatively, collect from the Ombudsman office (address below).
  2. Fill Out the Appeal Form
    • Consumer Details: Name, address, Consumer Number, contact number, email.
    • CGRF Details: Mention CGRF order number, date of order, and attach a copy of the CGRF decision.
    • Grounds for Appeal: Explain why CGRF’s decision is flawed (e.g., ignored meter test results, failed to consider evidence of wrong meter reading).
    • Relief Sought: Describe precisely what you want (bill revision, penalty waiver, or refund).
  3. Attach Supporting Documents
    • Copy of the CGRF Order.
    • Copies of all earlier complaints (1912 CRN, IGRC application, CGRF petition).
    • Copies of meter reading photographs, billing statements, and any emails/WhatsApp chats.
  4. Submit the Form
    • In Person: Visit the Electricity Ombudsman Office in Bangalore and submit the appeal.
    • By Post: Send via registered post to the Ombudsman’s address (below), keeping proof of posting.

7.4 Electricity Ombudsman Contact Details

  • Office Address:
    Electricity Ombudsman, Karnataka
    9th Floor, Chandragupta Bhavan,
    #1, G.S. T. Road,
    Bengaluru – 560009
    Phone: 080-25300165 / 080-25586520
  • Email: ombudsman@kar.kerc.org
  • Operating Hours:
    Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (except government holidays).

After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgment with a Case Reference Number. The Ombudsman typically issues a final decision within 60 days of receiving the appeal. Their decision is binding on BESCOM, though you can still approach the High Court of Karnataka if unsatisfied (rare and time-consuming).

8. Step 5: Moving to Consumer Court (Optional)

If you believe the Ombudsman’s decision is legally unfair or does not cover your grievance, you have the option to approach the Consumer Forum (District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission – DCDRC). This is often called “Consumer Court.”

8.1 When to Approach Consumer Court

  • If the Ombudsman’s award does not cover compensation for mental agony or interest on delayed refund, and you believe you have a strong case under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
  • If you want to claim additional damages (beyond mere bill revision), like a penalty from BESCOM.

8.2 Jurisdiction & Timeline

  • Jurisdiction: Basavanagudi falls under the Bangalore South District Consumer Court (or District Forum).
  • Time Limit: File within 2 years of the cause of action (for electricity bills, this is counted from the date you made the first complaint to BESCOM).

8.3 How to File a Case in District Consumer Court

  1. Draft a Consumer Complaint
    • Complainant’s Details: Name, address, Consumer Number, occupation.
    • Opposite Party: BESCOM (Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Ltd.), address: 1st Main Road, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru – 560027.
    • Facts of the Case: Chronological narration:
      1. Received disputed bill on June 10, 2025.
      2. Called 1912, lodged CRN 123456 on June 12, 2025. No resolution by July 1, 2025.
      3. Filed IGRC application on July 5, 2025 (IGRC No. 15/Jul/25). No satisfactory response by August 5, 2025.
      4. Petitioned CGRF on August 10, 2025 (CGRF No. 22/21Aug/25). CGRF order on September 20, 2025, dismissing appeal.
      5. Filed Ombudsman appeal on October 1, 2025. Receive order on December 1, 2025, which is unsatisfactory.
    • Relief Sought: Bill revision (₹5,000 reduction), refund of excess payment (₹2,000), interest @ 9% from date of payment, compensation ₹20,000 for harassment.
  2. Attach Documents
    • Copies of the disputed bills, CRN acknowledgment, IGRC order, CGRF order, Ombudsman order, and payment receipts.
    • Evidence: Photographs of meter readings, note of estimated vs actual units, and any in-person survey reports.
  3. Court Fees & Affidavit
    • Pay court fees (depending on claim amount—usually 2% of the claim subject to a maximum of ₹5,000).
    • Draft an affidavit stating the truth of the facts.
  4. Filing the Complaint
    • Submit the complaint at the District Consumer Forum Office.
    • The court issues a Notice to BESCOM, asking them to respond within 30 days.
  5. Hearing Process
    • BESCOM’s advocate appears and files a written response.
    • Both sides present evidence; the court may summon BESCOM officers for cross-examination.
    • The District Forum typically delivers a judgment within 6–9 months, depending on backlog.

8.4 Consumer Court Contact Details (Bangalore South District)

  • Office Address:
    District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum
    Court Complex, 1st Floor,
    Rajajinagar, Bengaluru – 560010
    Phone: 080-23212774
     Website: https://dcdrc.bengaluru.nic.in
  • Operating Hours:
    Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (except government holidays).

Pursuing a Consumer Court case is usually a last resort because it’s time-consuming and requires legal assistance. Most disputes settle by the Ombudsman stage.

9. Basavanagudi-Specific Contact Details & Offices

Basavanagudi falls under BESCOM’s Bengaluru South Circle. Below are key local offices and contact numbers you’d need throughout the process:

  1. BESCOM Basavanagudi Sub Division Office
    • Address:
      Assistant Executive Engineer (Ele.,) Basavanagudi Sub Division
      2nd Main Road, Basavanagudi
      Bengaluru – 560004
    • Phone: 080-26611015, 080-26613503
    • Services: Meter reading corrections, IGRC grievance submission, new connections, disconnection, meter inspection.
  2. BESCOM Bengaluru South Zone Office
    • Address:
      Superintending Engineer (Ele.,)
      BESCOM Bengaluru South Zone
      7th Cross, Jayanagar 3rd Block East
      Bengaluru – 560011
    • Phone: 080-26705561, 080-26705562
    • Email: sebescomsouth@bescom.co.in
    • Services: Escalate grievances unresolved at sub-division level, supervise IGRC activities.
  3. Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (CGRF) for Bengaluru Urban
    • Address:
      Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum (Bengaluru Urban)
      BESCOM Consumer Relations Office,
      No. 12, J.P. Avenue, Curve Road,
      Tasker Town, Shivajinagar,
      Bengaluru – 560051
    • Phone: 080-23205374 / 080-23205375
    • Email: sewest@bescom.co.in
  4. Electricity Ombudsman (Karnataka)
    • Address:
      Electricity Ombudsman, Karnataka
      9th Floor, Chandragupta Bhavan,
      #1, G.S.T. Road,
      Bengaluru – 560009
    • Phone: 080-25300165, 080-25586520
    • Email: ombudsman@kar.kerc.org
  5. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (Bengaluru South)
    • Address:
      District Consumer Forum Office,
      Court Complex, 1st Floor,
      Rajajinagar, Bengaluru – 560010
    • Phone: 080-23212774
    • Website: https://dcdrc.bengaluru.nic.in
  6. BESCOM Helpline & Online Portals
    • Toll-free Number: 1912 (24×7) bescom.karnataka.gov.in.
    • WhatsApp Support: 9449844640 (for general issues)
    • Online Complaint Portal: bekcom.karnataka.gov.in bescom.karnataka.gov.in.
    • Mithra App: Download from Google Play / App Store, register consumer ID, and lodge complaints directly from mobile.

Use the nearest sub-division office (Basavanagudi SD) for initial issues; escalate to the South Zone office if unresolved. For CGRF & Ombudsman, use the “Bengaluru Urban” contacts.

10. Tips for a Smoother Resolution

  1. Keep All Bills & Receipts Organized
    • Maintain a dedicated file (physical or digital) with copies of the last 12 months of bills, payment receipts, meter photos, and complaint CRNs. This avoids scrambling when you need documents fast.
  2. Note Meter Readings Monthly
    • Every month, on the bill date, write down your meter reading in a notebook or a simple Excel sheet. This quick habit helps catch discrepancies immediately.
  3. Attend Hearings In Person
    • Whether it’s an IGRC meeting, CGRF hearing, or Ombudsman session, being present shows you’re serious. Dress neatly, bring original documents, and be ready to explain your case clearly.
  4. Use Official Channels First
    • Always start with 1912 or online/WhatsApp before escalating. Courts or tribunals will question if you tried the official grievance redressal mechanisms.
  5. Know the Timelines
    • Informal complaint: Expect a response in 3–7 working days.
    • IGRC: Must resolve within 30 days.
    • CGRF: Hearing within 30 days of petition, decision within 45 days of hearing.
    • Ombudsman: Final decision within 60 days of appeal.
    • Consumer Court: Typically 6–9 months but can vary.
  6. Document Every Interaction
    • If you call 1912, ask for the agent’s name, CRN, and time stamp.
    • If someone visits your meter, take their BESCOM ID card photo and ask for a site visit note.
  7. Be Polite but Persistent
    • BESCOM staff are more cooperative when you remain courteous. However, don’t hesitate to remind them of time limits—if they push you around, mention you will escalate to CGRF or Ombudsman.
  8. Get Help from Basavanagudi Resident Associations
    • Local resident welfare associations (RWAs) in Basavanagudi often pool resources to challenge collective billing issues (like faulty street lighting meters). They can guide you or even accompany you to IGRC hearings.
  9. Leverage Social Media Carefully
    • Sometimes tweeting at @BESCOM_Cares (BESCOM’s official Twitter) can fast-track a response. Do so after you’ve tried all official channels, and include your CRN. Avoid posting personal details publicly.
  10. Consider an Electrical Engineer’s Report
    • If BESCOM insists the meter is fine but you know otherwise, hire a certified electrical inspector (₹2,000–₹3,000) to check the meter. His signed report can be strong evidence at CGRF or Ombudsman stages.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. My bill jumped from ₹1,200 in June to ₹3,200 in July. I’ve made no changes. Should I first call 1912 or visit the Basavanagudi BESCOM office?

  • Answer: Always start with calling 1912 so there’s a record. If they can’t resolve within 7 working days, then visit the Basavanagudi Sub-Division Office with your CRN and details.

Q2. BESCOM says they took an actual reading, but the reading on the meter photo I took three days ago is different. What should I do?

  • Answer: Share the meter photo (date & time stamped) with the IGRC application. If IGRC still sides with BESCOM, escalate to CGRF, presenting both the BESCOM reading slip and your photograph as evidence.

Q3. How long does it take for BESCOM to replace a faulty meter, and can they continue billing me during this period?

  • Answer: BESCOM typically replaces faulty meters within 7–10 working days of your request (only after they test and confirm the meter is inaccurate). During this period, they usually bill on estimated consumption. You can request a “Zero Units” temporary bill if you’re sure of near-zero usage (for vacation or vacant houses). Otherwise, you’ll be billed on average usage and get an adjustment after the meter is replaced.

Q4. I paid half my disputed bill to avoid disconnection, but BESCOM still disconnected power. What can I do?

  • Answer: Immediately call 1912 with your payment receipt. If they refuse reconnection, file a complaint with the local Bengaluru South Circle office and submit an IGRC application citing “Illegal/Unauthorized Disconnection.” Disconnection without following KERC’s 15-day notice norms is punishable. BESCOM must reconnect within 24 hours of receiving your proof of payment.

Q5. Do I need a lawyer to approach CGRF or Ombudsman?

  • Answer: Not strictly. CGRF and Ombudsman processes are designed for self-representation by consumers. However, if you’re not comfortable writing petitions, a paralegal or consumer rights volunteer can help draft and submit forms. For Consumer Court, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended.

12. Conclusion

Dealing with a wrong or unexpectedly high electricity bill in Basavanagudi can be stressful, but knowing the process and having the right documents is half the battle won. Let’s recap:

  1. Understand Your Bill: Familiarize yourself with how BESCOM bills you—tariff codes, meter readings, and charges.
  2. Identify the Issue: Compare your meter reading and tariff category; look for spikes or estimated readings.
  3. Informal Complaint (1912/Portal/WhatsApp): Lodge a quick grievance and note the CRN.
  4. IGRC Petition: If informal fails, file a formal complaint with IGRC (expect a 30-day resolution).
  5. CGRF Appeal: If IGRC is unsatisfactory, escalate to CGRF (resolve within ~75 days).
  6. Ombudsman Appeal: When CGRF isn’t enough, approach the Ombudsman within 30 days of CGRF’s order (final decision in ~60 days).
  7. Consumer Court (Optional): If you need compensation beyond CGRF/Ombudsman, file a petition under the Consumer Protection Act.

Stay calm, document every step, and adhere to timelines. Armed with this guide, you have a clear map to navigate BESCOM’s grievance redressal channels, from the simplicity of a phone call to the formality of consumer tribunals.

Bet you’ll feel relieved knowing you’re not helpless when your Basavanagudi electricity bill looks unfair. Follow these steps, keep records, and be persistent—sooner or later, you’ll get a fair resolution.

Source :  Fulinspace.com

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