Bescom smart meter case: Karnataka HC stays proceedings against Energy Minister K J George
The order by a single-judge bench of Justice M I Arun came on George's petition that sought the quashing of the private complaints filed by several BJP MLAs last month before the special court for legislators under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections relating to criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and misappropriation of property, as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. It also called for the quashing of a special court order that directed the Lokayuktha superintendent of police to submit a report on the matter.
The BJP leaders allege that the tendering process was arranged in a way that favoured a particular company. Questions were also raised about the cost of meters compared to that in other states.
George's counsel argued before the court that prior sanction was required to prosecute public servants. The minister argued in his petition that the complaints are motivated by political reasons.
After hearing arguments, the court ordered, 'The case of the petitioners is that the impugned order is passed in violation of the provisions of Section 175(4) and 223(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and also in violation of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. For the aforementioned reasons, there shall be stay of further proceedings pursuant to the impugned order…till next date of hearing.'
The matter will be heard further at 2.30 pm on August 20.
Smart meters would feature a GPS-based communication system, with users being able to make payments and monitor power usage in real time.
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