The Orissa Electric Supply (Line Materials Unlawful Possession) Act, 1989
The Odisha Electric Supply (Line Materials Unlawful Possession) Act, 1989
This law deters and punishes the illegal possession and theft of major electrical infrastructure equipment across Odisha, India. It applies to anyone found carrying or storing specified high-voltage conductors, cables, insulators, lightning arresters, and transformers belonging to the government or power grid without proof of lawful ownership. Power grid officials are authorized to inspect suspected premises, seize illicit materials alongside vehicles used for transport, and order their confiscation. Offences carry mandatory fines and prison terms up to five years. By placing the onus of proof on the suspect and facilitating swift property seizure, the statute protects essential public power distribution networks from sabotage and equipment theft.
- 1. Short title, extent and commencement
- 2. Definitions
- 3. Penalty for unlawful possession of electric supply-line material
- 4. Non-production of the material before Court
- 5. Search of place suspected to contain electric supply-line material
- 6. Seizure of electric supply-line material
- 7. Confiscation
- 8. Appeal
- 9. Vesting of property
- 10. Confiscation not an answer to other penalty
- 11. Offences to be cognizable
- 12. Presumption as to orders
- 13. Protection of action taken in good faith
- 14. Act to override other laws
- 15. Power to make rules
PDF: pending for this language.