Did Sambhal MP Ziaur Rahman Barq Pay Rs 6 Lakh Fine to Restore Power Supply?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal development, Sambhal MP Ziaur Rahman Barq complied with a High Court order by depositing Rs 6 lakh to restore his electricity supply. This case highlights issues surrounding electricity theft allegations and the legal processes that ensue. What does this mean for political figures facing similar accusations?
Key Takeaways
- Ziaur Rahman Barq deposited Rs 6 lakh as per court order.
- High Court mandated the payment for restoration of electricity.
- Allegations of electricity theft dated back to December 2024.
- Significant fine of Rs 1.91 crore imposed on Barq.
- The next hearing is scheduled for July 2.
Sambhal, June 17 (NationPress) Ziaur Rahman Barq, the Samajwadi Party MP from Sambhal, has deposited Rs 6 lakh with the electricity department on Tuesday, as mandated by the High Court, facilitating the restoration of power supply to his residence.
This situation traces back to December 17, 2024, when a smart meter was installed at Barq's home in the Deepa Sarai area of Sambhal. Just two days later, on December 19, the electricity department performed a load inspection and accused Barq of electricity theft.
Post-inspection, officials claimed that Barq's household was utilizing over 16 kilowatts of electricity, exceeding the approved limit.
An Meter Reading Instrument test allegedly indicated zero consumption for several months, leading to a substantial fine of Rs 1.91 crore and a formal charge of electricity theft.
Despite numerous notifications, Barq did not respond, which led him to seek intervention from the High Court.
On June 3, the High Court mandated that the MP must initially deposit Rs 6 lakh as a temporary measure to have the electricity connection reinstated.
In compliance with the court order, Barq's lawyer, Farid Ahmed, visited the powerhouse on Tuesday and submitted a demand draft of Rs 6 lakh, along with a request for the immediate restoration of power supply.
Commenting on the situation, advocate Farid Ahmed stated, "The court instructed us to deposit Rs 6 lakh first to restore the connection. We have fulfilled this requirement today and anticipate the resumption of power supply shortly."
Naveen Gautam, Executive Engineer of the Electricity Department, mentioned, "The action was initiated based on a complaint of power theft at the MP's property. Today, a demand draft of Rs 6 lakh was deposited as per the court's directive, and his power connection will be restored today itself."
The High Court is set to review the matter on July 2, where the legality of the fine and other associated issues will be scrutinized.
In the meantime, Barq has asserted that he was not afforded a sufficient opportunity to present his case.
Point of View
The situation involving MP Ziaur Rahman Barq underscores the critical importance of accountability among public officials. The legal proceedings not only reflect individual responsibility but also set a precedent for how similar cases might be handled in the future. As the High Court prepares for its next hearing, the implications of this case will likely resonate beyond Sambhal, making it essential to watch closely.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Ziaur Rahman Barq to pay the fine?
Ziaur Rahman Barq paid the fine as per a High Court order to restore his electricity supply amid allegations of electricity theft.
How much was the fine imposed on Barq?
The fine imposed on Ziaur Rahman Barq was Rs 1.91 crore, with an interim payment of Rs 6 lakh required for restoration of service.
What is the next step in this case?
The High Court will hear the matter again on July 2, where the legality of the imposed fine and other related issues will be reviewed.
What were the allegations against Barq?
Barq faced allegations of electricity theft after a load inspection showed excessive power consumption and a malfunctioning smart meter indicated zero usage.
Who is representing Barq in this matter?
Ziaur Rahman Barq is represented by advocate Farid Ahmed, who has been handling the legal proceedings.
