NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq was slapped with a hefty fine of Rs 1.91 crore by the Uttar Pradesh Power Department on Friday over allegations of electricity theft.
The action follows a police case registered against the MP on Thursday for allegedly stealing electricity at his residence in Sambhal’s Deepa Sarai area.
Officials from the Power Department, backed by heavy police security, conducted a raid on Barq’s house amid suspicions of tampered electricity meters. During the inspection, irregularities were found in two meters, sparking serious concerns.
It was discovered that despite the use of air conditioners, ceiling fans and other electrical appliances, Barq’s electricity bill for the past year showed zero consumption.
The department also noted a significant mismatch with a sanctioned load of just 2KW compared to an actual usage of 16,480 watts.
Barq has been in the spotlight before, facing charges of inciting violence in Sambhal during protests related to a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid on November 24.
The latest FIR, filed by Sub-Divisional Officer Santosh Tripathi, alleged that Barq bypassed the meter to power high-consumption appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators.