In a move aimed at preventing fraud and improving public trust, the Karnataka government has directed all field staff working under the State’s Energy Department to compulsorily wear uniforms and official identity cards while on duty.

The order applies to employees of all power supply companies (ESCOMs), including BESCOM, HESCOM, MESCOM, JESCOM and CESC, covering linemen, bill collectors, meter readers and other field personnel visiting consumers’ premises.

The decision follows a representation submitted to the Energy Minister by State Police Complaints Authority member Mohan Kumar Danappa, highlighting rising incidents of impersonation and public concern over fake electricity department staff.

Hubballi case

The issue gained attention after a recent incident in Hubballi’s Anand Nagar area, where a man allegedly posed as an electricity bill collector and collected money from residents in a uniform resembling that of the department staff. Alert residents grew suspicious and handed him over to the police. A case was subsequently registered at Old Hubballi Police Station.

Officials said such incidents had created fear among consumers, with even genuine electricity department employees facing problems of suspicion while visiting homes for meter reading, bill collection and maintenance work.

Wear ID, look sharp

In response, the Energy Department has issued strict instructions to all ESCOMs, making it mandatory for staff to wear prescribed uniforms and display government-issued identity cards prominently during duty hours.

The department has also directed employees to maintain a neat and disciplined appearance, including proper grooming of hair and beard, while interacting with consumers. Staff visiting households have been instructed to clearly identify themselves and behave in a manner that inspires confidence among the public.

Awareness campaigns

To curb fraud involving fake bill collectors, meter readers and line staff, the government has also ordered awareness campaigns across ESCOM jurisdictions. Local offices have been instructed to educate consumers on verifying official identity cards and identifying genuine department personnel.

Awareness initiatives will be carried out through social media platforms, FM radio, local television channels, newspapers and public announcements.

Officials expressed hope that the new measures would reduce public anxiety and help prevent cheating cases involving impersonators posing as electricity department staff.