The Electricity Act, 1910 is one of the foundational laws that governs the generation, distribution, supply, and use of electricity in Pakistan. Originally passed during British colonial rule, the Act continues to regulate electricity related matters across major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, especially concerning power theft, tampering with electricity meters, and criminal negligence involving electrical works.
Whether you’re a consumer, utility provider, industrial unit, or government body, this law holds relevance in both civil and criminal contexts.
If you’re living or doing business in Pakistan’s urban centers, you may encounter issues like.
Sudden disconnection of supply
High or erroneous billing
Electricity theft allegations
Meter tampering accusations
Transformer damage or fire hazards
Unsafe electrical installations
These situations not only affect your comfort or finances but can also lead to serious criminal liability under the Electricity Act.
The Act was established to.
Regulate the supply and use of electricity.
Prevent electricity theft and damage to power infrastructure.
Ensure consumer safety through proper installations.
Establish rights of licensees (like K Electric, LESCO, IESCO) and consumers.
Define penalties and procedures for violations.
The government may grant licenses to individuals or companies to generate, distribute, and supply electricity within specific areas.
“In cities like Lahore or Karachi, entities like LESCO or K-Electric are licensed under this provision.”
Illegal tapping, bypassing the meter, or tampering with electricity lines is a punishable offence. Depending on the extent, it may result in.
Fines
Imprisonment (up to 3 years)
Disconnection of supply
“In Karachi and Lahore, power theft is common in congested urban areas, and authorities are increasingly filing FIRs under this section.”
No utility provider can disconnect your electricity without due notice or reason. If they do, you have a legal right to challenge the act in civil court or approach NEPRA.
Improper or faulty electrical wiring, especially in industrial buildings or high rise flats, can lead to criminal negligence charges if it causes fires or fatalities.
Vandalism of poles, transformers, wires, or substations may result in imprisonment of up to 5 years and heavy fines.
From a legal perspective, many offences under the Electricity Act are criminal in nature, often involving.
FIR registration by the police
Investigation under CrPC
Trial in magistrate courts
Bail, defense, or penalty proceedings
As expert criminal lawyers, we often defend clients wrongly accused of power theft or guide victims in filing electricity damage complaints.
In urban areas, power theft and illegal connections often lead to.
Overloading and blackouts
Increased billing for honest users
Corruption and harassment by inspectors
Many people don’t know that even attempted theft or tampering with meters can be treated as a criminal act, punishable under the Act.
If you’re facing electricity issues, here’s what you can do.
File a complaint with NEPRA or your local power company.
Seek legal notice or civil suit for wrongful billing or disconnection.
If accused of theft, engage a criminal lawyer immediately.
If you’re a victim of infrastructure damage (like a fire due to faulty lines), pursue criminal and civil claims.
Many people falsely assume electricity-related cases are minor or non-serious. However, the penalties can be harsh, and without proper legal defense, you may.
End up with a criminal record
Face heavy financial penalties
Be disconnected without due process
Suffer reputational loss
We are a full service criminal and civil law firm with expertise in handling cases under the Electricity Act, 1910.
Our legal team provides.!
FIR defense and bail applications
Representation in magistrate and sessions courts
Civil suits against illegal disconnections
Corporate advisory for factories and real estate firms
Regulatory guidance for electrical compliance
Whether you’re in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, we ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled professionally and discreetly.
The Electricity Act, 1910 may be over a century old, but it still plays a vital role in managing power disputes, thefts, and rights in Pakistan. Whether you’re a resident or a business owner in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, understanding this law can protect you from wrongful penalties and give you the legal tools to fight back.
For any electricity related legal concern, don’t wait until it’s too late consult an expert criminal and civil lawyer at MAH&CO. today.