VILLUPURAM: In a significant shift from his recent praise, PMK founder S Ramadoss has launched sharp criticism against the ruling DMK government in Tamil Nadu for its failure to install smart electricity meters and implement a promised monthly billing system. This reversal comes just days after he had commended the administration, highlighting growing discontent over electricity infrastructure delays.
Unfulfilled Promises on Electricity Reforms
In a detailed statement issued on Monday, Ramadoss pointed out that the DMK government has not honored its commitment to introduce a monthly electricity billing system. He emphasized that Tamil Nadu currently operates on a bimonthly billing cycle, which places substantial financial pressure on middle-class households by resulting in higher cumulative bills and economic strain.
Longstanding Demand for Monthly Metering
Ramadoss revealed that he has been advocating for monthly metering since November 2015, underscoring the prolonged nature of this issue. He referenced announcements made by former electricity minister Thangam Thennarasu in June 2025, who stated that smart meters would be installed for 80 lakh connections across nine districts to combat electricity theft and ensure accurate billing.
Government Statements and Implementation Delays
Further elaborating, Ramadoss noted that electricity minister S S Sivasankar in December 2025 had indicated that tenders were issued and the monthly billing system would be adopted following the installation of smart meters. However, he criticized the slow progress, stating that over the past five years of DMK governance, smart meters have only been installed on a pilot basis in one part of Chennai.
Project Timeline and Electoral Implications
According to Tangedco officials, the statewide implementation of the smart meter project requires an additional two years, a timeline that Ramadoss finds unacceptable. He highlighted that the assembly election is likely to be held in May, warning that heavy electricity usage during this period could lead to spiked bills.
Ramadoss cautioned, "People across all classes will express their anger through their votes," suggesting that voter dissatisfaction over the electricity billing issue could significantly impact the upcoming polls. This statement reflects broader concerns about governance and public service delivery in Tamil Nadu.
Broader Impact on Voter Sentiment
The delay in smart meter installation and monthly billing adoption is not just a technical issue but a matter of public trust and economic relief. Ramadoss's criticism underscores how infrastructure delays can translate into political consequences, especially in a state where utility costs directly affect household budgets.
As the election approaches, this issue is poised to become a focal point in political discourse, with Ramadoss positioning the PMK as a vocal advocate for consumer rights and efficient governance in Tamil Nadu's electricity sector.
